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UN: Aids-related deaths in decline

30/07/2008

The United Nations has claimed a decade-long drive to raise awareness over HIV/Aids has resulted in a decline in related deaths.

A new report from UNAids revealed between 2001 and 2007 the global rate of HIV infections fell from three million to 2.7 million.

It claimed significant gains have been made in educating people over the risk of unprotected sex and noted the changes in sexual behaviour seen in African countries such as Burkina Faso, Cameron, Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, Uganda and Zambia.

But the report warned the epidemic was not over in any part of the world, with HIV infections rising in countries including China, Indonesia, Kenya, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea, Russia, Ukraine and Vietnam.

"Countries need to focus HIV prevention programmes to where the new infections are occurring," commented UN Population Fund Executive Director Dr Thoraya Obaid.

"Knowing the epidemic and choosing the right combination of interventions are critical for an effective response. In many contexts, young people and women need special attention."