HIV/AIDS Centre2025-11-27T07:18:56+00:00
FAQs

South Africa continues to carry the highest number of people living with HIV globally. Statistics South Africa estimates that in 2024, approximately 8.0 million people are living with HIV. The number has continued to rise, influenced in part by treatment interruptions following the closure of several PEPFAR/USAID-funded facilities in early 2025.

HIV remains a significant public health challenge, and despite ongoing education and awareness efforts, many myths and misconceptions still persist. Stigma remains a major barrier to testing, treatment, and support. This section provides clear, reliable information to empower individuals, reduce stigma, and offer guidance to both those living with HIV and those affected by it.

Current HIV picture in South Africa

• Overall HIV prevalence: Approximately 12.7% of the total population
• People living with HIV: An estimated 8.0 million
• Adult prevalence (15–49 years): 19.6%
• Gender differences in prevalence:
 – Women aged 15–49: 23%
 – Men aged 15–49: 11.3%
• Youth prevalence (15–24 years):
 – Young women: 9.4%
 – Young men: 3.8%
• Workforce prevalence (20–65 years): Around 23% of economically active adults
• Treatment access: Approximately 6.2 million people are currently on antiretroviral therapy, although the full impact of recent service disruptions is still being assessed.
• Provincial differences:
 – Mpumalanga records the highest provincial prevalence at 17.4%.
 – KwaZulu-Natal has the second-highest rate in the country.

Treatment for depression

There are many different treatments for depression and the correct treatment should be carefully chosen by a trained professional based on the circumstances of the person who has HIV or [...]

In the news: World Aids Day 2008

1 December 2008 signals the 20th anniversary of World Aids Day. This year's campaign is "Lead. Empower. Deliver. Stop Aids. Keep the Promise." We cannot only rely on government, business [...]

HIV and depression

Depression is a separate illness that can and should receive treatment in addition to the treatment the sufferer is undergoing for HIV or Aids. However, depression often goes undiagnosed and [...]

HIV and circumcision

Male circumcision involves removing a loose fold of skin that covers the head of the penis (foreskin). While it is often a mark of belonging to a particular tribe or [...]

Mother-to-child transmission of HIV

HIV can be passed from the mother to the baby during pregnancy, labour, birth and through breast feeding. However, with the right care and support this risk can be reduced [...]

Voluntary HCT is vital

The impact of HIV and Aids on the health of the South African population must never be underestimated. By participating in HIV counselling and testing (HCT), you've the opportunity to [...]

Confidential HIV counselling and testing

Confidential HIV counselling and testing (HCT) is the first step in getting to grips with HIV, whether you test positive or negative. It affords entry into care, treatment and support [...]

HIV-negative result and the window period

One would think that HIV tests would be fairly cut and dry; either one is HIV-negative or HIV-positive. However, a negative HIV test may not be all that it appears [...]

HIV and Aids in South Africa

Many of us are tired of hearing messages about HIV and Aids, and yet new infections are still happening every day. Perhaps the statistics will help us take note of [...]

What to eat if you’re HIV+

If you're living with HIV and Aids, a healthy, balanced diet will help you remain well for longer. If you feel ill, have diarrhoea, a sore mouth, or have no [...]

It’s best to have the test

You can have a simple, confidential blood test that can determine whether you are HIV positive or not, even before symptoms develop. What is a HIV test? HIV tests detect [...]

Defy the HI virus with good nutrition

Although a cure for the dreaded HI virus has not been uncovered yet, there are still some simple and practical ways to keep your immune system strong. Nutrition is a [...]

The information and content provided by LifeAssist on this website and/ or articles is for general informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal or clinical or health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Therefore, consult an expert for professional advice.

Go to Top