April 8 - News Briefs

Origins of sexually transmitted HIV among MSM

A group of scientists have identified how HIV is transmitted in men who have sex with men (MSM). Previously, researchers did not know whether HIV RNA or DNA was transmitted in semen. Genetic analysis has shown that HIV does originate from RNA in seminal fluid.

The scientists hope that a better understanding of how HIV spreads during will allow new avenues to explore in creating vaccines and/or drugs to fight the HIV virus.

- Read the full CBC story here
- Study published in February 10, 2010 issue of Science Translational Medicine

HIV/AIDS leading cause of death among women

UNAIDS recently reported that HIV/AIDS is the leading cause of death and disease among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) worldwide. In response, UNAIDS has launched a 5-year action plan: The Agenda for Accelerated Country Action for Women, Girls, Gender Equality and HIV (2010–2014).

The action plan calls on the UN system to support governments, civil society and development partners in reinforcing country actions to put women and girls at the centre of the AIDS response, ensuring that their rights are protected.

As of December 2008, 33.4 million people were living with HIV worldwide, of which 15.7 million ─ almost half ─ were women. The proportion of women infected with HIV has risen in many regions over of the world over the past 10 years. In sub-Saharan Africa, 60% of people living with HIV are women. Nearly 30 years into the HIV epidemic, HIV services do not sufficiently address the specific realities and needs of women and girls.

- 5-year action plan available for download here