Global Overview
Throughout the duration of the pandemic, more than 21 million people have already died from AIDS. In 2007 alone 2 million people succumbed to the illness, largely due to inadequate access to HIV prevention and treatment services. Every day, over 7500 more people become infected with HIV. On a global level, the HIV pandemic remains the one of the most serious infectious disease challenges facing public health. This concern has been addressed and recognized within international forums, and is represented as a primary concern within the Millennium Development Goals.

“All of us must recognize AIDS as our problem. All of us must make it our priority. We cannot deal with AIDS by making moral judgments or refusing to face facts – and still less by stigmatizing those who are infected and making out that it is all their fault. We can only do it by speaking clearly and plainly about the ways that people become infected and about what they can do to avoid infection.” -- Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan

According to the UNAIDS epidemiological update, in 2007 the total number of people living with HIV worldwide was 33 million. The scope of HIV/AIDS is far-reaching. Although 33 million HIV infected individuals is a staggering figure, this number does not account for the additional millions who are also affected by HIV/AIDS. Whether they are AIDS widows, orphans, or relatives caring for the sick and dying, the impacts of are felt well beyond those who are infected. Furthermore, HIV/AIDS is an international issue that is not concentrated to one region, gender, socio-economic background, or profession. People in every region and in every country are affected.  Even in high-income countries where larger epidemics have been averted, there is now concern that prevention efforts are waning and that infection rates, particularly in poorer communities, are increasing rapidly. 

“Knowing the epidemic and choosing the right combination of interventions are critical for an effective response.”  -- UNFPA Executive Director, Dr. Thoraya Obaid

Although the pandemic remains concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa with the largest numbers of people living with AIDS and the highest percentages of HIV infections per capita, it is important to understand that HIV/AIDS is not an ‘African’ problem but a global issue that requires global and national solutions. According to UNAIDS, it is imperative for countries to “know their epidemic” in order to develop and implement effective HIV prevention and treatment strategies which are appropriate according to the needs of the region.

Box 1.1

Source: UNAIDS 2007 Epidemic Update