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HIV/AIDS in Syria

HIV/AIDS in SyriaHealth care in Syria has experienced significant disruption due to the ongoing civil war, which first began in March 2011. The conflict has resulted in a cumulative diminishment of the health care system to a partly-functioning institution. Medical facilities and hospitals have been targeted, with nearly 15 million people in desperate need of medical attention. 

Despite HIV prevalence remaining low in Syria and just 762 people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Syria between 1987 and 2011, the Middle East is one of the only regions in the world where HIV/AIDS infection is spiking. This spike can be attributed to factors such as increasing rates of poverty, labor migration and human trafficking, which can potentially manifest in an HIV/AIDS epidemic. 

Vulnerable, marginalized groups such as female sex workers and intravenous drug users are at a significantly higher risk of contracting HIV than the general population. Therefore, the response to HIV/AIDS in Syria has to focus on these groups, as their behaviors have the potential to kickstart an epidemic.

Health Care in Syria

The Syrian health care system impairs many citizens’ ability to access medical professionals and treatment. As a result of the war, approximately 70% of health care professionals have left the country. Similarly, 50% of health care facilities have been obliterated. Consequently, Syria lacks the necessary staff, facilities, treatment options, funding and capacity to manage health problems effectively. This shortfall significantly affects the handling and control of communicable diseases such as HIV.

The country’s response to HIV/AIDS remains significantly lower than global targets in terms of preventative measures, diagnosis, testing and treatment. Those living with HIV/AIDS in Syria are significantly impacted by the lack of health care, as sexual and reproductive issues are often overlooked.

The civil war has induced unrest in the form of human rights violations, financial decline and environmental crises. health care costs have skyrocketed, with medical treatments and private care becoming increasingly inaccessible to the general public. In northwest Syria, approximately 2.3 million women and girls do not have access to medical care, including reproductive and sexual health, such as treatment for HIV/AIDS.

Stigma Surrounding HIV/AIDS in Syria

The availability of treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV is the least attainable because of the stigma attached to sexual diseases. This stigma affects the likelihood of certain groups being informed about HIV and understanding how to prevent infection. HIV/AIDS in Syria is most prevalent among intravenous drug users and female sex workers. These marginalized groups often face negative identity prejudice, which can hinder their access to HIV/AIDS education and health care due to discrimination.

A study by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) found that adequate knowledge among female sex workers, intravenous drug users and prisoners of HIV/AIDS was below 30%. Additionally, the study showed that despite the subgroups being predominantly aware of HIV/AIDS, the participants’ overall knowledge and understanding of risk factors was insufficient. They experienced very little exposure to HIV/AIDS health campaigns. 

Tackling HIV/AIDS in Syria

To address HIV/AIDS in Syria, the Ministry of Information launched a nationwide media campaign across television, the press and radio stations. The campaign intended to raise awareness and improve knowledge about HIV/AIDS, empowering people to make better-informed decisions.

The Syrian Family Planning Association also implemented a program to improve HIV awareness among Syrians. This initiative included a peer education component designed explicitly for vulnerable groups such as young people, female sex workers and prisoners, aiming to educate them about HIV/AIDS and encourage safer choices.

These programs offer a foundational approach to HIV/AIDS education by providing valuable and potentially life-saving information that equips citizens with the knowledge to make well-informed decisions. Ultimately, this will contribute to the curbing of a war-induced HIV/AIDS epidemic.

– Ella Dorman

Ella is based in Worcestershire, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project. 

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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How Zanmi Lasante is making an impact in Haiti

zanmi lasanteHaiti is a small country located on the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, carrying a population of 11.72 million. Many problems are actively eroding the country’s prosperity, including poverty, poor health care and malnutrition. UNICEF reports that only 41% of Haitians live above the poverty line and malnutrition affects approximately 25% of children living in the capital. Amid all this anguish, many non-profits have started up in Haiti to help its citizens prosper and flourish. One in particular is Zanmi Lasante, a sister organization of the multi-national NGO Partners In Health, which operates in 11 countries and employs 18,000 workers worldwide.

Zanmi Lasante: HIV Initaitives

Established in the 1980s, Zanmi Lasante has impacted many Haitians. It supports many causes including HIV/AIDS reduction, mental health, nutrition and water sanitation.

In 1990, Zanmi Lasante created an HIV Equity Narrative to supply antiretroviral drugs to poor, rural areas. Patients who have been diagnosed with HIV early on can receive these drugs to prevent its replication. The organization also employs many community workers who distribute medicine to patients and care for them at home. The program also holds screening programs to detect the virus. So far, the program has tested more than 100,000 for HIV this year and an estimated 15,000 people have received antiretroviral drugs during the same period.

Mental Health

Zanmi Lasante expanded its range in 2005 and started focusing on alleviating mental health issues in Haiti; it improved its services in 2012 and now employs community health workers, nurses and psychologists who support patients with depression, epilepsy, psychotic disorders and children with psychological issues. The organization has also created the Zanmi Lasante Depression Symptom Inventory, which is a depression assessment tool manual written in Haitian Creole.

Zanmi Lasante held more than 9,000 therapy visits annually. From July 2023 to June 2024, it held 385 community outreach programs and 408 learning seminars regarding psychological issues.

Malnutrition and Hygiene

Furthermore, since 2013, Zanmi Lasante has been producing the food item Nourimaba, which is an extremely nutritious paste that it distributes for free among Haitians suffering from malnutrition. The organization makes Nourimaba from peanuts, milk powder, canola oil, sugar and vitamins. Consuming this for less than two months consistently can restore a severely malnourished child to health. Today, Zanmi Lasante successfully produces more than 120 metric tons of Nourimaba each year.

In order to improve Haiti’s water sanitation, the NGO provides soap to numerous hand-washing areas and improves old plumbing infrastructure by putting in newer pipes that connect to pure water reserves. The organization targets more than 50,000 people with these activities per year.

Partners In Health and Zanmi Lasante are making big changes in Haiti and increasing the country’s living standards daily. This non-profit’s work is likely to make even more improvements for Haitians and drastically reduce poverty, hunger, and sickness rates in the future.

– Mustafa Tareen

Mustafa is based in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Efforts to Stop Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission in Indonesia

Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission in indonesiaIn 2023, about 570,000 people in Indonesia were living with HIV. Recognizing the urgency, the Indonesian government intensified its efforts to support individuals and prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission. Community organizations play a crucial role in this endeavor, providing care and treatment access to those in need.

The Situation in Indonesia

Since 2008, UNICEF has supported the governments of Papua and West Papua in Indonesia in establishing a Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) program. This program emphasizes HIV prevention, diagnosis and treatment within communities. Providing antiretroviral treatment during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission. Ideally, since 2009, HIV testing should be part of antenatal care for pregnant women in Indonesia. However, more than a decade later, 37% of pregnant women still do not receive HIV screening. In 2022, only 18% of mothers with HIV accessed antiretroviral therapy.

Current Action to Prevent HIV Transmission

The National Alliance to End AIDS in Children, established in 2023, unites government, international organizations and civil society to improve access to health services and mental support for women and children living with HIV. The alliance focuses on three primary priorities:

  1. Advocating for the specific needs of adolescent girls and children living with HIV.
  2. Raising awareness by disseminating information about PMTCT (Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission), Early Infant Diagnosis and sexual education.
  3. Empowering communities to support children living with HIV effectively.

Importance of the Community

With renewed political commitment, supporting community-based services becomes crucial to providing necessary care and support for women and children living with HIV. Mobilizing community health workers is essential not only to prevent transmission but also to assist those affected by the disease. Organizations like Lentera Anak Pelangi (LAP), operating since 2009, play a vital role in this effort. As Indonesia’s first multidisciplinary service provider focusing on children with HIV, LAP collaborates with volunteers, sponsors and partners to enhance the quality of life for those living with the disease.

Key Focuses of LAP

  • Improving the Quality of Health and Nutrition. LAP offers health and nutrition assessments, family counseling and support during child hospitalizations. The organization also educates on sanitation and hygiene. Additionally, LAP provides monthly free medical checkups, non-BPJS laboratory testing and financial support for medications.
  • Advocating for ARV treatment. Its program raises public awareness about treatment options and conditions through training, social media campaigns and mass media efforts. It also extends its outreach to schools by educating both staff and students.
  • Ensuring the psychosocial well-being of children and their families. The program teaches children life skills and includes a school that monitors their development. It offers vocational training tailored to each child’s talents and interests. Additionally, the organization facilitates peer support groups for parents.

Providing a Community

A mother describes how her daughter’s confidence has grown since joining LAP, highlighting the friendships they have both formed with others in similar situations. Another parent comments on the bonds her son has created and the benefits he has received from LAP’s educational and nutritional support. Despite the stigma in Indonesia, where 33.5% of adults believe children with HIV should not attend school with uninfected children, programs like LAP play a crucial role. They counter isolation and stigma while ensuring families receive necessary support and help prevent the disease’s spread.

– Amelia Short

Amelia is based in Bradford, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How GAT is Combating HIV/AIDS in Portugal

How GAT is Combating HIV/AIDS in PortugalPortugal, located in southwestern Europe, borders Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. Established in the 12th century, the country boasts a rich cultural heritage. However, Portugal faces a significant health challenge: the rapid spread of HIV, which has been affecting its population since the 1980s. HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, attacks the body’s immune system, rendering it vulnerable to other diseases and pathogens. If untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a condition for which there is currently no cure.

HIV/AIDS in Portugal

Portugal reports relatively high HIV rates, with UNAIDS estimating around 47,000 adults and children living with the virus in 2023, nearly 0.5% of the population. HIV transmission occurs through various means, including the use of contaminated needles for drugs such as heroin, fentanyl and morphine. In 2023, drug use stood at 12.8% in Portugal, potentially influenced by the 2001 Drug Decriminalization Act, which reduced penalties for drug use and emphasized rehabilitation over punishment. Additionally, stigma surrounding HIV remains a significant issue. A 2023 survey revealed that approximately 37.7% of HIV patients experienced prejudice after diagnosis. This stigma fuels fear and hostility toward the virus, deterring people from educating themselves or undergoing regular testing.

GAT

Despite these ongoing challenges, several firms in Portugal are actively combating the spread of HIV/AIDS. Among them is the Treatment Activist Group (GAT), established in 2001 and recognized by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. GAT offers a range of services, including an anti-discrimination center that supports individuals affected by HIV and aims to reduce stigma through education. This initiative has trained more than 620 individuals on tolerance and combating bias against those with HIV. Additionally, the group operates private centers across the country offering free HIV testing with quick results, primarily targeting sexual minorities while also providing free contraceptives and therapy. Moreover, GAT’s Housing First program furnishes free housing to those infected with HIV, drug addicts and sexual minorities, along with personalized services to support their needs.

GAT is committed to supporting the objectives of UNAIDS and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, which focuses on health and well-being. The organization strategically intervenes in key areas of public health policy by involving the communities most affected by and vulnerable to these infections. GAT’s efforts aim to influence the development of care provisions, best practices and policies, adhering strictly to human rights, good practices and international standards. This approach ensures that GAT contributes meaningfully to the global targets set for controlling and ultimately ending the spread of HIV/AIDS.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to address HIV in Portugal have made strides in reducing stigma and providing essential services to affected populations. Organizations like GAT play a pivotal role by offering free testing, housing programs and education initiatives aimed at fostering inclusion and awareness. These actions target the underlying factors contributing to the spread of HIV and work to improve health outcomes for vulnerable groups. However, addressing societal attitudes and ensuring widespread access to testing and treatment remain critical to combating the epidemic.

– Mustafa Tareen

Mustafa is based in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Top 5 Charities Operating in the Dominican Republic

Charities Operating in the Dominican Republic
With approximately one in four living under the poverty line and 40% being at risk of falling into poverty, the Dominican Republic suffers from a plethora of social issues. In particular, women and children are at most risk. For women, there are sharp increases in maternal mortality, with 107 women dying for every 100,000 births. Whereas for children, seven out of 10 have been pregnant at least once. The Dominican Republic is also prone to natural disasters which put infrastructure, food and water at risk. However, in recent years, five key charities have been operating in the Dominican Republic. They primarily focus on women and children but also improve healthcare, education and accessibility to food and water. Here are the five charities operating in the Dominican Republic.

Project Hope

Since 1996, Project Hope has worked in the Dominican Republic to respond to those most vulnerable: women and children, according to its website. It continues to improve care within maternity hospitals, distribute crucial medicines and supplies and partner with international universities to establish medical programs for staff training. Within its work, the organization has provided 2,300 children with health services and workshops covering pregnancy prevention and HIV/AIDs.

For the last 20 years, Project Hope has founded three maternal and child health clinics providing care for 150,000 patients each year. October 2019 report found that the charity had contributed to a 31% decrease in maternal mortality and a 25% drop in neonatal mortality.

World Vision

World Vision is an international charity whose work in the Dominican Republic has responded to food accessibility problems, educational issues and natural disasters. In response to Hurricane Fiona in 2022, the charity provided urgent support. Distributing more than 3,200 food and hygiene kits to survivors helped bring the country closer to stability, especially when inflation increased food prices, putting more families at risk of poverty. Donations to World Vision are concentrated on specific project areas, and once established, can work in the chosen community for 15-20 years.

Caritas Internationalis

Established in 1961, Caritas Internationalis has worked in the country to provide support for health care, housing, water, hygiene and cases of emergency. The international organization consists of 162 Catholic relief organizations working in 200 countries. In the Dominican Republic, the organization works with local governments to ensure that they follow policy and regulations. After Hurricane Noel in 2007, the charity provided humanitarian aid through helping those affected access clean water, and also participated in the rebuilding of houses and schools. 

The Mariposa DR Foundation

The Mariposa DR Foundation runs the “Unleash the Leader in a Girl” program aiming to empower girls most at risk of poverty and pregnancy. The foundation seeks to end generational poverty by educating women so that they can reach adulthood with a substantial education and avoid child pregnancy. In 2023, the Foundation raised $1,367,152 to support the program. In the same year, the program also opened a Culinary School, helping to improve nutrition for the girls and their families.

The organization puts an emphasis on attending summer programs. As the summertime can be a risk for young girls due to more time at home, there is an increased threat of early marriage or pregnancy. The time spent away from home, helps girls transition from childhood to adulthood safely.

Save the Children

Save the Children operates in 120 countries to guarantee children access to sufficient healthcare and education. In the Dominican Republic, the charity has helped to protect 1,665 children from harm, 3,765 children during the crisis, and provided 27,318 children with a healthy start. In several cases, the charity has provided portable water supplies, assisted with crop planting and animal breeding, and created community based vegetable gardens so that families can grow their own in times of short supplies.

These five key charities operating in the Dominican Republic have crucially helped with reducing poverty, the prevention of maternal mortality and child pregnancy. While there are still ongoing issues with many families still at risk of falling below the poverty line, these organizations continue to relieve pressures on those most vulnerable.

– Ellie Western

Ellie is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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HIV/AIDs in Indonesia

HIV/AIDs in Indonesia Nearly 39.9 million people are currently living with HIV/AIDs today. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks cells that protect the body from infections, leading to increased vulnerability to infections and diseases within the human body. HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDs), which often signifies a highly impaired immune system and can heavily reduce the predicted lifespan. While there is no standalone procedure for HIV, patients can receive antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is an ongoing treatment that uses viral suppression to decrease the amount of HIV in the blood. Some medicines can help prevent people from contracting HIV before a certain activity or experience (sex, drugs, etc.). However, without testing opportunities, it is nearly impossible to detect the presence of HIV, which is why having structured programs and opportunities for testing and treatment is crucial to our livelihoods

HIV/AIDs in Indonesia: Barriers

In 2023, 570,000 people were living with HIV/AIDs in Indonesia. Indonesia is the fifth most vulnerable (to HIV/AIDs) country in Asia. The main causes of HIV/AIDs transmission in Indonesia are unprotected sexual activities, unsanitary drug injection and communal needle use. The leading cause is sexual transmission, which accounts for nearly 89% of all cases. Not enough information is available among the Indonesian population, leading to an absolute lack of awareness.

Currently, the largest barrier regarding HIV/AIDs treatment in Indonesia is financial access to health care. Most Indonesians are unaware of their status (regarding the virus) and do not have access to testing or cannot afford treatment. Additionally, there is the social fear of rejection that many living with HIV/AIDs face. Having HIV/AIDs, though out of people’s control, often leads to social rejection and distancing. People may fear having ties cut between them and their family or friends, disallowing them from sharing their status and getting help.

Treatment of HIV/AIDs in Indonesia

As of February 2024, nearly 130,000 people are receiving ARP therapy in Indonesia, which is a great start, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. With the help of UNAIDS, Indonesia is now much more intensive on HIV testing (so people living with HIV/AIDs are aware of their status and can get help) and treating those with HIV as well. Additionally, the government is attempting to put HIV or STI services into health benefits packages, so more people can access them, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. The Indonesian Government is also taking the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines much more seriously and attempting to implement them in more facets of the country.

According to the 2024 Frontiers Article, Indonesia is also actively trying to involve private health care providers and diversify treatment to increase its outreach.

IAC and AHF

Based in Jakarta, the Indonesian AIDs Coalition (IAC) primarily helps communities and locals. It has specifically worked on the financial aspects of treatment (increasing accessibility) and allowing for a more inclusive and accepting space for those living with HIV/AIDs in Indonesia, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. The IAC holds the Global Fund Principal Recipient status and used the Global Fund to Fight AIDs, Tuberculosis and Malaria’s grant for HIV in Indonesia.

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has been conducting HIV testing to help people figure out their status. It helps with treatment, specifically by offering free ARV drugs, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. AHF has also begun focusing on “housing, food security, and pandemic response and preparedness” as well.

LAP, SWING and UNAIDS

One Child One Life program by Lentera Anak Pelangi (LAP) primarily focuses on psychological support for adolescents and children. This program specifically offers mental support along with educating younger people who have HIV/AIDs, according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. By providing an environment of people with similar circumstances, LAP can provide solidarity to children with HIV and build their confidence. The program is especially good at helping those with HIV/AIDs return to school and continue their normal lives.

Service Workers in Group Foundation (SWING) focuses on working with female sex workers. In the process, the group tries to highlight the dangers of HIV/AIDs and how to protect themselves and others from the disease,  according to the 2024 Frontiers Article. Often, sex workers are not able to access health clinics (due to working hours and schedule), though they need to check their health and stay in good condition. Considering that their job provides many opportunities for contraction of diseases (such as HIV/AIDs), getting tested is incredibly important.

Along with the US Government, UNAIDS has partnered with the Indonesian Government to partake in PEFPAR, to help Indonesia reach its HIV targets and improve treatment. One of UNAIDS’s many focuses is eradicating stigma or discrimination towards those living with HIV, and fostering a more accepting community, according to its website.

Overall, there is so much being done to increase HIV testing, improve treatment, and address and eliminate stigma around HIV in Indonesia. With these groups working together and in tandem with the Indonesian government, Indonesia is getting closer and closer to reaching its goal of HIV eradication!

– Lakshya Anand

Lakshya is based in Bellevue, Washington, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir to Reach 120 Countries

HIV Prevention Drug to Reach 120 CountriesAt the end of 2023, approximately 39.9 million people worldwide were living with HIV. An estimated 0.6% of adults aged 15 to 49 years globally are living with the virus. However, the impact of the epidemic varies significantly among countries and regions. Gilead’s new, affordable, twice-yearly lenacapavir (LEN) injection effectively prevents HIV, especially in women. On Oct. 2, 2024, the company announced licensing agreements to offer the drug at lower costs in 120 “high-incidence, low-income” countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) described this development as a significant advancement in combating the life-threatening disease, which affects roughly half its victims as women, predominantly in sub-Saharan Africa.

HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir

Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable that provides pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of contracting HIV. Earlier this year, a study in South Africa and Uganda revealed the drug’s high efficacy in preventing HIV among HIV-negative girls and women. Furthermore, another trial involving men in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Peru, South Africa, Thailand and the United States (U.S.) demonstrated nearly complete protection. Indeed, in the lenacapavir group tested, among women, there were no new cases of HIV infection and the trials revealed no significant safety concerns.

Pressure on Gilead from World Leaders

Following the publication of these findings, Gilead faced pressure from the People’s Medicines Alliance along with a group of 300 world leaders, celebrities, scientists and activists to make the drug available in middle- and low-income countries simultaneously as people in wealthier nations. Among the signatories were actors Gillian Anderson, Stephen Fry, Sharon Stone and Alan Cumming; former heads of state; and Francoise Barré-Sinoussi, a Nobel-winning scientist. In a letter addressed to the Gilead CEO Daniel O’Day, they pushed the company to open the license up to poorer nations immediately. Furthermore, they expressed their hope that the “groundbreaking” development could make “radically positive change for people facing stigma.”

HIV in Low-Income Countries

Gilead is prioritizing the registration of LEN in the 18 countries with the highest HIV incidence rates, in Sub-Saharan Africa and South-East Asia. These high rates stem from inadequate domestic and international funding, with natural disasters and regional conflicts complicating governments’ HIV response efforts. HIV prevalence is higher in specific population groups, including men who have sex with men, which fuels stigma around the disease. However, global efforts to increase treatment accessibility have yielded substantial progress over the past two decades. Currently, 29.8 million of the 39 million people living with HIV are receiving treatment. Indeed, this is a significant increase from 7.7 million in 2010.

Looking Ahead

In response to these promising findings, the WHO has announced it is actively developing guidelines in collaboration with experts and global partners to ensure an affordable supply and equal access to the drug. New pharmaceutical developments are emerging rapidly. HIV prevention drug lenacapavir presents a hopeful method of combating the disease in high-risk countries.

– Hannah Dunford

Hannah is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Current State of HIV/AIDS in Algeria

HIV/AIDS in Algeria
HIV/AIDS is a significant health issue in Algeria, affecting thousands of lives. Despite efforts to combat it, the disease remains a challenge for the nation. 

The Prevalence

Algeria has seen an increase in HIV/AIDS cases over the last few years. According to UNAIDS, 26,000 Algerian children and adults were reported as living with HIV in 2023. Newly recorded cases of HIV in children and adults increased by 2,100 cases between 2022 and 2023. 

Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing the disease and preventing its spread. The government and non-governmental organizations work tirelessly to raise awareness and provide medical support to those affected.

Support Programs

The Algerian government has implemented several initiatives to combat HIV/AIDS. These programs, such as The Global Fund, focus on education, prevention, and treatment. Additionally, free antiretroviral therapy is available to patients, ensuring they receive the necessary medications to manage their condition effectively.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also play a vital role in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Algeria. These organizations work at the grassroots level, providing education and support to communities.

They conduct workshops, distribute educational materials and offer counseling services to those affected by the disease. NGOs also collaborate with the government to implement nationwide awareness campaigns and improve access to health care services.

For example, The Kaiser Family Foundation is an NGO that focuses on various domestic and international health epidemics. This foundation specifically examines global health policies to better improve access to care for those living with HIV in the U.S. and overseas. 

The Impact of Stigma and Discrimination

Stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS remain significant challenges in Algeria. Many individuals face social isolation and rejection due to their HIV status. This stigma often prevents them from seeking the medical help they need.

To address this issue, awareness campaigns aim to educate the public about HIV/AIDS and reduce the stigma associated with the disease. By fostering a more inclusive society, Algeria can better support those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Access to Health Care Services and Technology

Access to health care services is essential for managing HIV/AIDS in Algeria. The government has established numerous health care centers across the country to provide testing, treatment and counseling services.

These centers offer free and confidential HIV testing, which helps to make sure that individuals can receive a diagnosis without fear of discrimination. Additionally, trained health care workers provide compassionate and non-judgmental care to those living with HIV/AIDS.

Technology plays a crucial role in advancing HIV/AIDS research in Algeria. Labs use hot plate magnetic stirrers to achieve accurate results, which is particularly useful in the research of HIV/AIDS.

These devices ensure precise temperature control and consistent mixing, leading to more reliable data. By leveraging advanced technology, researchers can develop better treatment options and improve the overall understanding of the disease.

Community Support and Involvement

Support groups and community centers provide a safe space for people to share their experiences and seek emotional support. These groups also offer practical assistance, such as help with medication adherence and access to health care services. By fostering a strong sense of community, Algeria can better support those affected by HIV/AIDS and improve their quality of life.

The fight against HIV/AIDS in Algeria requires a multifaceted approach. By addressing the stigma, improving education, and leveraging technology, the country can better support those affected by the disease. Continued efforts and collaboration are necessary for making progress in this ongoing battle.

– Kelly Schoessling

Kelly focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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EpiC in Laos: HIV/AIDS Prevention for Marginalized Communities

EpiC in LaosThe Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) is an eight-year project (2019-2027) funded by the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). EpiC’s goal is to achieve control over the HIV/AIDS epidemic by enhancing technology and service access to key populations.

EpiC is led by FHI 360, a global organization that rallies technology, research and relations to improve global health. FHI 360 is present in more than 60 countries. Its EpiC project has been implemented in 35 countries, from Laos to Central Asia and Africa. With a budget of $4.2 million for 35 countries, including Laos, EpiC has seen success in controlling HIV/AIDS and improving the living conditions of those affected.

HIV/AIDS in Laos

Laos, located in the heart of Southeast Asia, borders Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and China. The country has a population of 7.5 million. The first case of HIV in Laos was recorded in 1992, involving a female sex worker who frequently traveled to Bokeo at the northern border of Laos and Thailand. Since then, Laos has maintained a low HIV prevalence, with an infection rate of 0.3%, affecting approximately 20,000 people by 2022.

The epidemic has a death toll due to the disease of less than 500. However, among the cases, 39.2% are female sex workers (FSM) and 11.5% are men who have sex with men (MSM). Approximately 11.682 cases of HIV/AIDS are on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Furthermore, 9,910 instances received a viral load test within the past 12 months.

EpiC’s Initiatives

EpiC is different from past HIV/AIDS control projects because it identifies that support for high-risk individuals is its target. High-risk populations include sex workers, pregnant women who have HIV and children whose one parent has HIV. Building on existing HIV/AIDS relief programs, EpiC improves management, accurate health information and funding.

Rolling out HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), setting up a total market for open access to condoms and ART and decentralizing access to HIV/AIDS-related services to local and private sectors with appropriate funding health care providers to smaller regions are current EpiC’s actions. EpiC also prioritizes providing services to lessen the stigma and violence surrounding HIV/AIDS in health care and law enforcement.

EpiC’s Success

In 2022, EpiC achieved its goal of 95-95-95 in Laos. This means that 95% of people living with HIV/AIDS are aware of their health status. Additionally, 95% of those receive treatment and among individuals who receive treatment, 95% have suppressed viral infection and have no risk of passing the virus to others.

Moving Forward

With EpiC strategically set in place, the future is looking bright for HIV/AIDS patients and the health condition of developing countries, especially Laos. EpiC has made positive changes toward open access to HIV/AIDS control services to vulnerable communities through joint efforts and critical strategies.

– Jimmy Nguyen

Jimmy is based in Savannah, GA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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USAID Programs in Botswana Alleviating HIV

USAID Programs in BotswanaClassified as one of the world’s most impoverished countries in 1966, Botswana has undergone significant economic transformation since gaining independence. Today, it is recognized as an upper-middle-income country, largely due to its thriving mining sector. The land-locked nation’s production of diamonds, alongside other minerals, is a key factor in its growing economy. After 58 years of gaining independence from the U.K., Botswana is now aiming to achieve high-income status. 

However, the country still relies on the help of the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) programs. Despite Botswana’s economic prosperity, the health of the nation’s people is largely vulnerable due to the prevalence of HIV. The epidemic has become a burden on the economy, as well as Botswana social services. Almost 21% of adults in Botswana have HIV, which is one of the highest HIV infection rates in the world. Improvements to the health care sector have been implemented, such as increased access to clean water. Yet, the nation’s health remains unstable due to the HIV epidemic.

USAID’s Work in Botswana

USAID is a key implementer of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which combats the HIV epidemic. PEPFAR works to address HIV in more than 50 countries globally. “We have the opportunity to see an AIDS-free generation by 2030,” said Congresswoman Barbara Lee, a PEPFAR advocate. PEPFAR’s goal is to eradicate AIDS and, by extension, HIV in the near future and it is working with USAID to achieve this.

In the past two decades, PEPFAR has received about $120 billion in funding, enabling USAID to fight the HIV epidemic and improve global health, with a significant focus on Botswana. Since 2003, PEPFAR has invested $750 million to combat HIV in Botswana. This funding supports USAID programs, enhancing its effectiveness in the Southern African nation.

Reducing Stigma

HIV has been heavily stigmatized in parts of Botswana and USAID is working to reduce negative perceptions of people with the infection. USAID is engaging with traditional, faith and community leaders to help eradicate the epidemic by addressing the social stigma surrounding HIV.

Support and Counseling 

Individuals with HIV aren’t the only ones affected by the virus. In 2022, an estimated 54,000 children in Botswana were orphaned due to HIV/AIDS. USAID supports orphans and other vulnerable groups, including women and children, whom HIV has impacted.

Furthermore, USAID provides counseling services to people living with HIV in Botswana. Infected individuals are supplied with support and guidance, encouraging them to get medical treatment. Counselors can track individuals’ progress as they start or maintain their medical schedules, helping to prevent the transmission of the virus.

Final Thoughts

USAID has been helping Botswana since the ’80s, working to alleviate HIV by improving health services, prevention efforts, public opinion and support for those affected by the disease. The $750 million PEPFAR has provided to Botswana since 2003 has allowed USAID programs to help reduce AIDS-related deaths among adults and children by about 14,100. Additionally, USAID programs have contributed to lowering the estimated number of children living with HIV by 16,900 in the past 20 years. USAID programs continue to combat the HIV epidemic, both in Botswana and globally, working toward eradicating the disease.

– Megan Hall

Megan is based in Suffolk, UK and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr