AIDS treatment and maternal mortality in resource-poor countries

The crisis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), particularly in resource-poor countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, is one of the most devastating pandemics in history and adds a cruel burden on women. High rates of maternal mortality and morbidity continue to take a drastic toll on women worldwide. These health challenges provide a window of opportunity to combine urgent global health needs with women's fundamental right to health care, including targeting resources to provide woman-centered treatment for HIV/AIDS and to avert pregnancy-associated death and morbidity. Governments and organizations have a tremendous responsibility in addressing these health issues. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria was established last year to make significant funds available for treatment and care. Programs such as MTCT-Plus, which provides treatment for HIV-positive mothers and prevents mother-to-child transmission of HIV, can begin to alleviate the tremendous health burden women bear. Addressing women's health needs and women's right to health care is the essential first step in providing services to millions living with HIV/AIDS and pregnancy-related complications.