Name
Chamberlain University
NR-553: Global Health
Prof. Name
Date
Over the past three decades, HIV/AIDS has continued to pose one of the most significant global health challenges. The epidemic has not only affected millions of individuals but has also consumed the largest proportion of global development assistance for health. In 2011, an estimated 34.2 million people were living with HIV, with 2.5 million new infections and 1.7 million AIDS-related deaths reported globally (WHO/UNAIDS/UNICEF, 2011).
The disease remains particularly severe in Sub-Saharan Africa, where infection rates in some countries exceed 30% of the adult population (USAID Bureau of Global Health, 2010). The Caribbean region ranks second globally in terms of HIV/AIDS prevalence, especially among individuals aged 25 to 44 years (USAID Bureau of Global Health, 2010).
Several factors contribute to the persistence of HIV across regions. These determinants range from biological and cultural factors to political and economic conditions that impede prevention and treatment efforts.
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| High STI prevalence | Sexually transmitted infections increase the biological risk of HIV transmission. |
| Limited access to STI care | Many individuals cannot access treatment, worsening the spread of infection. |
| Cultural barriers | Social stigma against condom use reduces prevention efforts. |
| Political instability | Wars and civil conflicts disrupt healthcare systems. |
| Gender inequality | Women’s low social status limits their ability to negotiate safe practices. |
| Literacy challenges | Low education rates hinder awareness and prevention. |
| Unsafe medical practices | Reuse of needles and unsterile medical procedures spread infection. |
| Weak political commitment | Limited funding and prioritization of HIV response reduce effectiveness. |
(Adapted from USAID Bureau of Global Health, 2010)
A significant inequity in treatment access continues to exist between high-income and low-income nations. People in wealthier countries benefit from highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)—commonly known as the “triple cocktail”—introduced in 1996 (Busby & Kapstein, 2016). In contrast, millions of individuals in low- and middle-income countries still lack access to antiretroviral medicines (ARVs). This disparity contributes to approximately 5,700 AIDS-related deaths every day (USAID Bureau of Global Health, 2010).
HIV/AIDS affects not only individuals but also entire families, communities, and national economies. While prevention programs exist, many fail to address the unique needs of local populations. Evidence indicates that treating sexually transmitted infections can significantly reduce HIV transmission, underscoring the need for integrated control strategies.
To achieve universal access, comprehensive approaches must integrate provider-initiated testing, counseling, and linkages to treatment. Strong political commitment, effective resource allocation, and innovative prevention strategies are essential for reducing the global burden of HIV/AIDS.
You emphasized the role of economic conditions in shaping access to healthcare and influencing the global burden of disease. Expanding on this, it is essential to recognize how environmental pollution also exacerbates health inequalities.
Environmental pollution refers to the presence of harmful agents in the environment that can damage both ecosystems and human health (Briggs, 2003). Common pollutants include contaminated water, poor sanitation, indoor and outdoor air pollutants, radiation, and chemical exposures.
| Type of Pollution | Health Risks |
|---|---|
| Water contamination | Diarrheal diseases, cholera, and typhoid. |
| Indoor air pollution | Respiratory infections and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). |
| Outdoor air pollution | Cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and premature death. |
| Chemical exposure | Developmental delays, cancers, and neurological disorders. |
According to Landrigan et al. (2017), 92% of deaths from pollution-related diseases occur in low- and middle-income countries, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, especially children. Even minimal chemical exposure during early life can lead to lifelong disabilities and reduced earning potential.
Environmental risks are also linked to climate change, which worsens air quality and increases vulnerability among disadvantaged groups. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.9 specifically targets the reduction of deaths from hazardous environmental exposures by 2030 (United Nations, 2015).
Transitioning toward sustainable economies and implementing pollution control policies are vital strategies for reducing environmental health risks and improving equity in global health outcomes.
You correctly noted how health inequities undermine opportunities for vulnerable populations. Addressing these disparities requires a multisectoral approach involving governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academic institutions, and civil society.
Research indicates that structural determinants—such as social, economic, and political exclusion—systematically restrict opportunities for certain groups, worsening health inequalities. Effective interventions should therefore address not only healthcare delivery but also the root causes of inequity.
The World Health Organization’s Health 2020 framework, introduced in 2012, serves as a guiding model for reducing health inequities. It focuses on two main goals (WHO/Europe, 2013):
Improving health for all and reducing inequalities
Strengthening participatory governance for health
The EHCN, launched in 1987, has expanded to include over 100 member cities and 1,500 cities in national networks across Europe (WHO/Europe, n.d.). The initiative promotes:
Cross-sector collaboration
Policy integration at the local level
Public health advocacy for equity and sustainability
The network has effectively changed how local governments and communities approach health, promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and evidence-based decision-making. This model demonstrates how intersectoral partnerships and community engagement are critical for reducing inequities and improving global health outcomes.
Briggs, D. (2003). Environmental pollution and the global burden of disease. British Medical Bulletin, 68(1), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1093/bmb/ldg019
Busby, J. W., & Kapstein, E. B. (2016). Framing global health as human rights: Learning from the case of HIV/AIDS. Global Health Governance, 10(3), 24–40.
Landrigan, P. J., Fuller, R., Acosta, N., Adeyi, O., Arnold, R., Basu, N., Bibi-Baldé, A., … Zhong, M. (2017). Pollution responsible for 16 percent of early deaths globally. ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/10/171020182513.htm
United Nations. (2015). Sustainable development goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg3
USAID Bureau of Global Health. (2010). HIV/AIDS surveillance. https://www.globalhealthlearning.org/course/hiv-aids-surveillance
WHO/Europe. (2013). Health 2020: A European policy framework and strategy for the 21st century. http://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/199532/Health2020-Long.pdf
WHO/Europe. (n.d.). Promoting health and reducing health inequities by addressing the social determinants of health. http://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/141226/Brochure_promoting_health.pdf
WHO/UNAIDS/UNICEF. (2011). Progress report 2011: Global HIV/AIDS response. http://www.who.int/hiv/pub/progress_report2011/summary_en.pdf?ua=1
