HIV/AIDS in South Africa: an overview

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of the development of HIV/AIDS in South Africa, taking into consideration the social context and analyzing the factors most likely to have influenced its spread as well as the societal response to it. The authors argue that macro factors such as social and political structures, in addition to behavioral ones, have combined to shape the course of the epidemic. Since various factors linked to social inequalities have combined to shape the pattern and growth of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in South Africa, it is inappropriate to focus on only one dimension in an attempt to combat the epidemic. Following the psycho-socio- environmental model, all potential contributing elements need to be addressed simultaneously. This calls for a true interdisciplinary and multi-sectorial approach. It also requires great commitment as well as strong political will.

Pathogens of Vertebrate Animals as Invasive Species: Insights from South Africa

“…It first gained serious attention as an unusual health problem of unknown etiology in the early 1980s amongst the gay and drug-using communities in the USA (Luce 2013). It was first detected in South Africa in 1982 (Gilbert and Walker 2002). The causative virus was first isolated in 1983 ( Barré-Sinoussi et al 1983;Weiss 2003).…”

Aids and Bereavement in South Africa

“…Vertical transmission, or transmission of the virus from mother to child perinatally or during breastfeeding, is also a serious problem in South Africa (Ades et al, 2000). Surveys in KwaZulu-Natal, which has the highest incidence of HIV/AIDS in South Africa, indicate that more than one third of women attending antenatal clinics are HIV-positive (Gilbert and Walker, 2002a;SA Department of Health, 2001). high levels of poverty; disruptions of families and communities due to apartheid and the migrant labour system; high mobility, which has allowed for the rapid spread of the virus to new communities; resistance to using condoms; the low status of women in society and within relationships; social norms that endorse multiple sexual partners, especially among men; norms that do not encourage discussion of sexuality issues and HIV/AIDS.…”

Institutions and social change: a case study of the South African National AIDS Council

“…Between 1990 and 1999, HIV prevalence in South Africa grew from 0.73% to 22.6% (Gilbert and Walker 2002). The government struggled to implement the comprehensive National AIDS policy amidst the development of a new government structure and administration in South Africa (Schneider 2002).…”