2008 Report On The Global Aids Epidemic

"Knowing your epidemic" is essential for everyone involved in the response to HIV. Extensively illustrated with graphs and charts, this biennial report presents concise but comprehensive summaries of major issues in the global AIDS response. Annexes provide HIV estimates and data 2001 and 2007, and also country progress indicators.

Infectious diseases are the leading cause of death globally, particularly among children and young adults. The spread of new pathogens and the threat of antimicrobial resistance pose particular challenges in combating these diseases. Major Infectious Diseases identifies feasible, cost-effective packages of interventions and strategies across delivery platforms to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS, other sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis, malaria, adult febrile illness, viral hepatitis, and neglected tropical diseases. The volume emphasizes the need to effectively address emerging antimicrobial resistance, strengthen health systems, and increase access to care. The attainable goals are to reduce incidence, develop innovative approaches, and optimize existing tools in resource-constrained settings.

This Stocktaking Report, the third since the Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS initiative was launched in 2005, examines data on progress, emerging evidence, and current knowledge and practice for children as they relate to four programme areas known as the Four Ps: preventing mother-to child transmission of HIV, providing paediatric HIV care and treatment, preventing infection among adolescents and young people, and protecting and supporting children affected by HIV and AIDS.

This report on the global AIDS epidemic outlines the strategic role that governments must play in slowing the spread of HIV and mitigating the impact of AIDS in morbidity and mortality. The report draws on the accumulated knowledge of the last 15 years to highlight effective management policies.