Women account for a significant portion of people living with HIV worldwide, facing unique challenges related to prevention, treatment, and stigma. Here’s an overview:
Key Statistics
-Global Context:
Women make up over half of the 39 million people living with HIV globally. In sub-Saharan Africa, women represent about 63% of those living with HIV.
• United States:In 2021, women accounted for 19% of new HIV diagnoses, with Black/African American women disproportionately affected (54% of diagnoses among women).
Risk Factors
1. Biological Susceptibility: Women are at greater risk of HIV transmission during heterosexual intercourse due to anatomy.
2. Gender Inequality:Power imbalances can limit women’s ability to negotiate condom use or leave abusive relationships.
3. Intimate Partner Violence: Experiencing violence increases a woman’s risk of contracting HIV.
4. Socioeconomic Factors:Poverty and lack of access to education or healthcare heighten risk.
Unique Challenges
1. Diagnosis and Stigma:Many women are diagnosed late due to stigma or lack of access to testing.
2. Treatment Barriers:Women may prioritize family needs over their health, leading to missed treatment.
3. Mother-to-Child Transmission: Without proper treatment, women living with HIV risk passing the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
HIV Prevention Strategies for Women
1. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP):Daily medication that reduces the risk of acquiring HIV.
2. Education and Awareness: Programs that address stigma, power dynamics, and sexual health.
3. Empowerment Initiatives: Supporting women in making informed decisions about their sexual health.
4. Access to Condoms and Testing: Ensuring women have tools to protect themselves and access regular testing.
Women-Centered Care
1. Integrated Services: Combining HIV care with sexual and reproductive health services.
2. Support Networks: Encouraging women to connect with others living with HIV for emotional and practical support.
3. Tailored Advocacy: Addressing the specific needs of women in HIV policy and programming.
