HIV/AIDS has taken up to 40 million lives worldwide since the outbreak of the epidemic in the 1980s. Today, it remains a persistent virus across nations. Here is how HIV/AIDs in Bangladesh is a significant issue and how some are addressing it.

About HIV/AIDS

HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, targets and weakens the immune system, progressing to AIDS or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, which signals severe damage and can lead to death in some cases. 

In the past two decades, global infection rates of HIV have decreased. The spread of HIV/AIDS has reduced by 59% since 1995, according to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). 

The international organization works toward raising awareness and fostering a global response to the disease’s epidemic. Its statistics show that 1.9 million fewer people became infected with HIV from 1995 to 2022.

Despite this, densely populated areas like Latin America and Asia show increased transmission.

Amongst the countries with an increased rate of transmission is Bangladesh, alongside others such as the Philippines and Timor-Leste, according to a 2023 UNAIDS Asia and the Pacific report.

About HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh

While these three countries have a low prevalence of the disease, HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh affects less than 0.1% of the population, according to the medical journal AIDS Research and Therapy.

These statistics make Bangladesh one of the Asian countries with fewer HIV cases. Despite low numbers, the rise in cases of HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh has brought concerns. Income inequalities and poverty in resources are two major influencing factors on the rise of HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh and other countries in Asia and the Pacific. A fact sheet that the American Psychological Association published shows a correlation between socioeconomic status and HIV/AIDS infection rates. 

According to the source, a lower income may lead to activities such as engaging in sex as a form of labor in exchange for money. Additionally, areas with lower economic advantages may be subject to a lack of health care facilities.

Experts have also noted an increase in drug use as a primary factor in increased transmission rates of HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh. Drug users who share needles and syringes are prone to getting diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis C.

UNAIDS’ report, “Breaking Down Barriers: Removing The Obstacles That Hold Back HIV Responses,” shows that up to 10% of people who inject drugs receive help through needle and syringe exchange programs in the country of Bangladesh.

The Role of Gender Inequality in the Prevalence of HIV/AIDS

Despite these major factors, the medical journal AIDS Research and Therapy presents Bangladeshi women as a key population at risk of contracting the disease. Deep-rooted gender disparities in the country expose women to both emotional and physical threats. 

This disparity occurs through limited access to education, including health education. Additionally, gender inequalities prevent Bangladeshi women from having full ownership over their own sexual lives. 

UNFPA’s Efforts

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Bangladesh, is a major organization in the country fighting to eliminate harmful actions toward Bangladeshi women and girls. 

The health agency is also a leading advocate for the fighting of HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh. Since its beginnings in 1974, it has been working alongside the government of the country to better the sexual and reproductive health of its citizens.

Through fostering visibility on the disease and encouraging HIV testing and safe sex and protection, UNFPA looks to not only reduce HIV cases but achieve gender equality as well. 

Addressing the rising concerns of the existing disease is paramount for improving the Bangladeshi and the global population. 

The disease of HIV/AIDS extends beyond health, impacting culture and education worldwide, and organizations such as UNFPA not only provide resources for a better understanding of the disease but also heighten awareness about it and its global impact.

– Paula Pujol-Gibson
Photo: Flickr