Get the Facts: It Begins With YOU

The HIV/AIDS epidemic has had its most profound impact to date in Sub-Saharan Africa. The majority of people living with HIV/AIDS (63%), new HIV infections (65%), and AIDS-related deaths (72%) are in this region, which only accounts for 11% of the world’s population. Life expectancy gains over the past century have been halted and in some cases reversed in many of the hardest hit countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. The epidemic has already posed serious development challenges for the region and has affected communities, families, livelihoods, and numerous sectors of society. Yet the epidemic is quite diverse throughout Sub-Saharan Africa and, despite these challenges, there have been success stories, with some countries experiencing stabilization and even reductions in HIV prevalence. For example, HIV prevalence has declined among young people over the past several years in 8 of 11 countries with sufficient data to analyze these trends. However, the successes are not strong or widespread enough to affect the overall impact on the region. Learn more about HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa.

1. What is HIV?
   
   
2. What is AIDS?
   
   
3. What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?
   
   
4. How does someone become infected with HIV?
   
   
5. How does someone know if they are infected with HIV?
   
   
6. Can you tell if someone has HIV or AIDS by looking at them?
   
   
7. How is HIV detected?
   
   
8. How does HIV cause AIDS?
   
   
9. Why do some people make statements that HIV does not cause AIDS?
   
   
10. How long does it take for HIV to cause AIDS?
    
    
11. What are some of the symptoms of HIV infection and AIDS?
    
    
12. Is there a cure for HIV/AIDS?
    
    
13. What are Vaccines?
    
    
14. What are Microbicides?
    
    
15. There is a lot of talk about circumcision and HIV. What is the deal?
    
    
16. What is the link between HIV and tuberculosis (TB)?
    
    
17. What is the link between HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
    
    
18. Who is at risk for HIV?
    
    
19. Why are young women or more vulnerable to HIV infection than young men?
    
    
20. Are there treatments and medicines for HIV/AIDS?
    
    
21. What is the risk of HIV and other STI transmission from oral sex?
    
    
22. Can I get HIV from casual contact with someone who is infected?
    
    
23. How do I reduce my risk and protect myself from HIV?
    
    
24. What can I do to help in the fight to end HIV/AIDS?