Study projects heavy toll of HIV on young people in sub-Saharan Africa
An analysis conducted by UNICEF estimated that 9.6 million young people aged 15-24 years will be newly infected with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa between 2017 and 2050. About two-thirds of those will be girls or young women, according to the study. The continued toll of HIV among young people reflects the rapidly growing youth population in the region, which is expected to increase by 85% by 2050, as well as the slow decline in HIV incidence in this group, which has fallen by some 3% per year since 2010.
Presenting the data, Aleya Khalifa of UNICEF noted that reducing the HIV burden among young people in sub-Saharan Africa will require better access to HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health, and targeted testing services. [Summary based on submitted abstract; updated data may be presented on site.]
Abstract: Demographic transitions and the future of the HIV epidemic for children and adolescents
Session: New tools, old tricks: Innovative methods for understanding the epidemic (Hall 11B, Thursday, 26 July, 11:00-12:30)