Re-Evaluating Socioeconomic Conditions and the Continuing Spread of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa (Author Abstract‪)‬

Introduction The ravages of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa are widely acknowledged (UNAIDS, 2003; Whitehouse Fact Sheet, 2003, Taylor et al., 2003; Pratt, et al., 2000). The unique challenges in combating the spread of the disease in the region have also been widely discussed (Gallant and Maticka-Tyndale, 2004; Eaton et al., 2003; UNAIDS/UNICEF/WHO, 2002; Plot, 2000). While a number of well meaning individuals and organizations continue to find ways to reduce the morbidity and mortality rates of the disease in the region, socioeconomic (as well as political) factors remain major constraints in this effort. For example, many governments in the region are yet to fully acknowledge HIV/AIDS as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in their vital statistics for fear of the stigma associated with the disease including economic consequences (Ahmad, 2001; Baleta, 2000; Serwadda and Katongole-Mbidde, 1990). Those that do are disappointed with the limited support provided by the rich nations of the world for combating the disease in the region. Many African leaders are suspicious of the real intentions of individuals and organizations from affluent countries on the premise that they focus more on behavior and morality rather than socioeconomic factors (Wax, 2003; Wise, 2003).