A view of HIV / AIDS and mental health issues in South Africa -- from the outside looking in.

This presentation looks at HIV/AIDS in South Africa and makes various important comparisons with the United States. The role of anti-retroviral treatment (ART) and its ability to improve mental health is explored. The interface between neuropsychiatric disorders and HIV/AIDS is highlighted. How research conducted in the USA may be relevant to developing countries is briefly addressed. ESTIMATES OF HIV IMPACT IN SOUTH AFRICA ± END 2001: Almost 5 million people are living with HIV/AIDS; About 20% of adults aged 15±49 are HIV infected; About 25% of women delivering babies in public clinics are infected; Approximately 660 000 children are orphaned by AIDS. (excerpt)