Monday, December 01, 2008

World AIDS Day

Why does it matter?

AIDS is top killer of 15-44 year-olds in Asia
AIDS has become the top killer of American men aged 25 to 44
AIDS set to become top three killer worldwide
Oxfam Article
South Africa:
South Africans held a 15 minute silence today to observe world AIDS day and to remember the victims of the disease. South Africa has the highest number of people with AIDS in the world and 5.5 million South Africans have AIDS or are HIV positive. Shortly before the silence began, Health Minister Barbara Hogan called on men to get tested, "we encourage all men, I repeat all men, to test themselves for HIV to protect themselves and the people they love".
South Africa has long been criticised by the international community for its position on HIV/ AIDS. Former President Thabo Mbeki denied the link between HIV and AIDS and former health minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang maintained that it could be treated with beetroot, lemon juice, garlic and olive oil. A recent study by Harvard's School of Public Health said Mr Mbeki's 1999 decision to declare a number of available HIV/AIDS drugs toxic and dangerous led to 330,000 deaths.
The government's attitude has changed dramatically since the ruling African National Congress ousted Mr Mbeki in September and AIDS activists have welcomed Ms Hogan's appointment.

0 Comments:

Post a Comment

<< Home