Causes of High HIV/AIDS Prevalence in Africa
The leading causes of HIV/AIDS prevalence in Africa are high poverty, low education, sexual behavior, prostitution, and stigma. Many people become infected with HIV because they do not have enough money to buy condoms (Hanon, 2007). Others merely lack knowledge of the severity of HIV consequences, as well as of the ways the disease is transmitted. Having multiple sexual partners is yet another reason frequently neglected by young people that increases the likelihood of becoming infected. Finally, prostitution is a serious problem contributing to HIV incidence and prevalence (Hanon, 2007).
The Role of Stigma in HIV as a Social Problem
A different type of cause for high HIV prevalence is stigma, which prevents people from sharing their symptoms and visiting a doctor (Hanon, 2007). The movie starts with a story about a young woman dying from HIV, and none of her relatives were able to help her since she was too scared to tell anyone she was infected. Hence, stigma is a rather influential factor driving people’s behavior in regard to sharing their stories or keeping them to themselves until they die.
Programs and Prevention Strategies to Reduce HIV Spread
In the movie, the so-called ABC prevention strategy is suggested to reduce HIV spread. This approach includes abstinence, being faithful, and using condoms as a last resort (Hanon, 2007). Some of the interviewees argue that because of the prevalence of multiple-partner sex, the HIV rate is so high in African countries. Others, however, defend the right of individuals to lead their personal lives in the way they prefer, only on the condition that they are well informed about the negative implications of not using condoms.
Personal Reflection on Strategies to Stop HIV Transmission
My personal opinion on what could be done to help stop the spread of HIV broadly coincides with those expressed in the documentary. I consider using condoms the most effective way of preventing HIV. However, I also firmly believe that spreading information about HIV is crucial, especially in African countries, where the level of education and access to health care are lower than in developed countries. Additionally, I believe that measures eliminating HIV-associated stigma should be prevalent, especially in countries with a high incidence of this severe disease.
Reference
Hanon, J. (Director). (2007). Miss HIV: Overcoming AIDS in Africa [Video file]. Web.