Risk factors for human immunodeficiency virus type-1 acquisition in women in Africa.
Over 65% of individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reside in sub-Saharan Africa, and thus efforts to change the course of the HIV-1 pandemic should focus on this geographic region. Here, we discuss factors, including sexually transmitted diseases and hormonal contraceptive use, that impact susceptibility to HIV-1 in women in sub-Saharan Africa. This population is of special interest, given that women in this region are more likely to be infected than men. In addition, they are a potential source of transmission to their infants. A better understanding of the factors that influence HIV-1 susceptibility is key to developing interventions to control the epidemic.
Benki
Sarah
S
Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
McClelland
R Scott
RS
Overbaugh
Julie
J
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000635:transmission*; D017954:Africa South of the Sahara / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D005836:Genitalia, Female / Q000821:virology; D015497:HIV-1; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D018445:Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / Q000821:virology; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000635:transmission; D016387:Women's Health