Changing Trends and the Impact of Alcohol on the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in South Africa: Review

ABSTRACT

The association between increased HIV infection and alcohol use has been extensively studied and is established. South Africa is among one of the sub-Saharan African countries with the highest prevalence and number of people living with HIV/AIDS in the world. Although recent evidence suggests that the epidemic has stabilised; infection rates remain unacceptably high. Alcohol use is on the increase; particularly in the groups most susceptible to HIV infection; namely women and young adults; and informs poor choices with respect to safer sexual practices. This paper reviews the association between alcohol and HIV. More specifically; however; it aims to explore the potential socio-politico-biological and cultural explanations as to the factors that intersect to drive these two epidemic diseases alcoholism and HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Understanding some of the underlying factors will provide a framework to implement public health measures to curb HIV