Local and Global HIV Aging Demographics and Research

This introduction serves to foreground current patterns associated with HIV and aging, globally. We highlight key trends by World Health Organization sub-region, and identify gaps in existing knowledge. HIV and aging is insufficiently documented, as prevalence data for those over age 49 have not generally been captured by many countries, or by UNAIDS. Despite limited data and data systems, several dominant trends among adults aged 50 and older are discernible, including: growing HIV risk and prevalence is increasingly evident among maturing adults, worldwide; older individuals at risk of or living with HIV, and their health providers, fail to recognize risk and symptoms, leading to disease progression and delayed treatment. Cross-sectoral strategies will be needed to mount responses; public health campaigns will be essential in educating and informing individuals about HIV risk, prevention and care; and special efforts to tailor interventions to key populations most vulnerable or stigmatized in countries will be critical.