Today half of all individuals coping with HIV infection are women, and in some locales the proportion of women infected is even higher, emphasizing the need for gender-specific programming. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the region of the world most impacted by the AIDS epidemic, 60% of the individuals infected are women.

A report released in June 2010 by the Open Society Institute compiles and explains the evidence demonstrating which interventions are most useful for both preventing HIV/AIDS infection and helping improve the quality of life of women who are already infected. Much of the report is dedicated to methods of preventing the spread of infection in vulnerable populations through specific programming, such as distribution of condoms (especially female condoms), creating broader accessibility of STI screening and treatment, and employing peer educators in teaching about sexual health. For a full list of recommended interventions please visit: What Works for Women and Girls, Evidence for HIV/AIDS Interventions.

The report also highlights how transforming gender norms and providing increased opportunity for women broadly is shown to be very effective in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS and improving the lives of affected women. Likewise, making education more accessible generally for girls and women reduces HIV risk, and the effect is even greater when the education provided includes accurate and appropriate sex education.

Compiled from: What Works For Women and Girls: Evidence for HIV/AIDS Interventions, WUNRN.com, (28 September 2010).