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The number of new HIV infections is increasing in nearly 50 countries – in some cases drastically. Above all, experts worry about developments in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
About 18,000 scientists, activists, patients and politicians discuss ways to stem the global HIV epidemic this week in Amsterdam. Originally, the United Nations AIDS Program (UNAIDS) planned in 2014 to stop the spread of the HIV virus by 2030. But in about 50 countries, the number of infected people is increasing, according to Unaids.
Meanwhile, the goal is considered difficult to achieve. In some countries and regions of the world "we are again seeing the epidemic continue to increase," warned President Linda Gail-Bekker of the International AIDS Society. Lack of political will, lack of money and discrimination can not effectively fight the epidemic everywhere. This was highlighted by scientists and activists at the launch of the world's largest meeting of experts on AIDS and HIV, Monday in Amsterdam. The situation in Eastern Europe and Central Asia is particularly threatening.
World AIDS Conference in Amsterdam: 37 million people infected with HIV
The 22nd World AIDS Conference, which runs until Friday, is the largest meeting of experts about immunodeficiency in the world. This year's motto is "breaking down barriers, building bridges". Not only will new therapies be discussed and scientific news presented, but also fundamental patient rights – such as how vulnerable groups around the world can access tests and therapies.
The HIV virus damages the defenses of the body. The body can thus fight against pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and more difficult fungi. The infection is possible, inter alia by blood and sperm. If an HIV infection is not detected and treated in time, AIDS will develop.
Nearly 37 million people are currently infected with the HIV virus, most of them living in Africa. Nearly 60% of them are currently being treated, writes Unaids. Every year, nearly one million people die of AIDS. According to Unaids, there have been 1.8 million new infections in 2017. Thus, the key step of bringing to 500,000 the number of new infections by 2020 seems unattainable. HIV: Many new infections in Eastern Europe and Central Asia
"We sound the alarm," said the UN chief, Michel Sidibé, a few days ago . Although progress has been made in Africa, the number of new infections in some 50 countries is increasing significantly. "The decline in new infections has been most pronounced in the region most affected by HIV, Eastern and Southern Africa, where new HIV infections have dropped by 30% since 2010," says Unaids. In contrast, the number of new infections per year has doubled in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
One of the reasons for the spread of the epidemic is the stigmatization of vulnerable populations. The six organizations of those affected launched the "Hunt the virus, not the people" campaign to raise awareness among a wide audience. They also hope for stronger political pressure from the EU
In Africa, the fight against AIDS slowly enters into force
For decades, the global fight against AIDS has been focused on Africa. Most of the estimated 37 million people infected with HIV still live on this continent. But only from Africa has come now positive news. Representatives from Kenya, Ghana and Rwanda said that education and treatment had been successful.
In South Africa, which is the most affected by seven million people infected with HIV, the rate of new infections has dropped by 40% between 2010 and 2017, according to a UN report. In addition, many more people would have access to medicines. In Cameroon and Côte d 'Ivoire, the report indicates that little progress has been made.
In Amsterdam, many celebrities will support the fight against AIDS and fight against the stigmatization of infected people. Expectations include former US President Bill Clinton, British Prince Harry, pop legend Sir Elton John and Austrian artist Conchita. (dpa)
discussions follow
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