Patterns of HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe: implications for health education

Current patterns of HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe are examined using national surveillance data reflecting four main variables: age, gender, marital status, and residence. The data show that the distribution of cases by age and gender is consistent with the literature on the rest of sub-Sahara Africa. Distribution of cases by age is bimodal with incidence highest among sexually active young adults (20-39 years) and the very young (0-4 years), and the male-to-female ratio is nearly 1:1 among adults. However, among adolescents 15-19, the incidence among females is six times greater than their male counterparts. The data also show that married persons have the highest rate of HIV infection (51%), greater than single persons (34%). These patterns highlight the significance of heterosexual and perinatal transmission. These data suggest a need for expanded HIV testing, counseling, and education across gender and marital status in order to detect HIV infection earlier in the spectrum of the disease. Promotion of monogamy and proper condom use should be a major focus of the empowerment process. Further recommendations are provided for planning, implementation, evaluation, and coordination of a comprehensive national prevention strategy.