Representing the future, children are at the center of the HIV and AIDS epidemic
In Latin America and the Caribbean, there are more than 54,000 children living with HIV and approximately 7,000 children died of AIDS-related causes in 2005 alone. The number of people living with HIV and AIDS in some countries in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are nearing those of sub-Saharan Africa. In fact, the Caribbean has the second highest prevalence of HIV in the world.
Data has shown that the number of children infected with HIV is increasing, and there are no signs that the infection rate in slowing down. Weak surveillance systems in LAC distort the full extent of the epidemic in children.
It is known that the number of children being born with HIV is steadily increasing, diminishing chances of a healthy and fruitful life. While treatment scale-up efforts have been a focus of international priority, children have been almost completely left out of the picture. In LAC, children represent an average of only 8% of those individuals receiving antiretroviral treatment in the region.
Immediate action must be taken to ensure children living with HIV and AIDS in LAC receive treatment and support services. |
Representing the future, children are at the center of the HIV and AIDS epidemic |
