HIV and Ageing: A New Challenge to our Global Health

Understanding the Intergenerational Dialogue on HIV and Ageing

The UNAIDS estimates suggest that by 2030, 75% of people with HIV will be age 60 years or older. This demographic change poses new challenges and requires a shift in the global HIV response. The latest Editorial from The Lancet HIV explores the need for an intergenerational dialogue on HIV and ageing.

Impact of COVID-19 on HIV/AIDS Diagnosis and Mortality Rates

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many global health concerns have been exacerbated, including the diagnosis and treatment of HIV/AIDS. A study conducted in Brazil revealed a reduction in the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS by 22.4% in 2020 and 9.8% in 2021, and a significant increase in late diagnosis AIDS deaths. The pandemic has critically impacted the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS and its related mortality in Brazil, demonstrating the fragility of our current systems.

The Fragile Fight Against HIV

The recently published 'In Danger: UNAIDS Global AIDS Update 2022' presents a sobering picture of the fight against HIV. With stagnating financing for the HIV response, global inequities, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, progress is under threat. Current projections indicate that neither the UNAIDS 2025 95-95-95 targets nor the goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030 will be achieved.

Addressing the Challenges Faced by Older People Living with HIV

As the demographic of people living with HIV changes, so too must our approach to their care. Older people living with HIV face unique challenges, and there is a pressing need for tailored healthcare and support services. Addressing these issues is crucial in the global HIV response and to meet the UNAIDS' goals and strategies for 2030.

The Role of Inequality in the HIV/AIDS Response

Inequality, in all its forms, is a significant barrier to reducing HIV transmission and ending the AIDS epidemic. Gender inequalities and harmful gender norms are particularly problematic, hindering the world's ability to meet the 2030 target of ending the AIDS pandemic. Disparities in access to care for those living in rural compared to urban areas and cultural barriers affecting men and women's access to healthcare services are prevalent issues.

UNAIDS' Initiatives to Combat Inequality

UNAIDS is actively working to address these inequalities within the HIV/AIDS response. The organization has launched the Education Plus initiative, which centers on the importance of women accessing the right level of education to empower them and reduce their risk of HIV infection. This effort aims to tackle stigma and inequalities surrounding HIV and AIDS globally, a crucial step towards meeting our 2030 goals.