In the 30 years since the start of the global HIV pandemic, significant medical advances have been achieved, such that HIV is now a chronic condition that can be managed with medical treatment and care. Despite these improvements in treatment, people living with HIV continue to face a range of challenges, including stigma, ignorance and discrimination about HIV, as well as barriers to access to the information, services and treatment they need to manage their condition and maintain their health.
Key facts
Whilst constituting less than 1% of the UK population, Africans account for 35% of new HIV diagnoses each year.
In 2010, there were 24,397 HIV diagnosed black-Africans seen for HIV care in the UK, which accounted for 35% of all HIV-diagnosed persons accessing HIV care.
In the past decade, the number of individuals seen for HIV care increased almost four-fold among black Africans (6,730 in 2001 to 24,397 in 2010).
People from African communities are more likely to test and be diagnosed late than other groups.
Our view
African community-led responses to HIV have achieved significant successes, and continue to represent the most effective means of responding to HIV in the African communities. Community-led action: to oppose stigma and discrimination; to tackle ignorance; promote prevention; and respond to specific challenges including the interaction between HIV and faith, immigration and poverty, continues to be essential, and form a core part of the work of the AHPN.
Our view
African community-led responses to HIV have achieved significant successes, and continue to represent the most effective means of responding to HIV in the African communities. Community-led action: to oppose stigma and discrimination; to tackle ignorance; promote prevention; and respond to specific challenges including the interaction between HIV and faith, immigration and poverty, continues to be essential, and form a core part of the work of the AHPN.
Links
Shout Loud: Sexual health in your local area, contact details for local decision makers and current sexual health priorities.
IDoitRight: Information and advice about HIV and sexual health in England.
HIV and UK African Communities: Key Issues
Halve it: Early testing saves lives
HIV in the United Kingdom 2011 report : Health Protection Agency
New Prevention Technologies: UK African Microbicides Working Group
Global Health Sector Strategy on HIV 2011/2015
HIV Aware
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