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HIV-1-Discordant Couples in Sub-Saharan Africa: Explanations and Implications for High Rates of Discordancy
- Source :
- Current HIV Research; July 2007, Vol. 5 Issue: 4 p416-429, 14p
- Publication Year :
- 2007
-
Abstract
- In sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 1 in 2 HIV-1-infected persons living in a couple have a serodiscordant partner. Recent data suggest a large proportion of new HIV-1 infections in mature epidemics occur within discordant couples, making discordancy a major contributor to the spread of HIV/AIDS in Africa. What accounts for high rates of HIV-1 discordance and why some individuals remain uninfected despite repeated sexual exposure to HIV-1 is unknown. Studying HIV-1-discordant couples may contribute to understanding correlates of HIV-1 immunity and acute infection. Additionally, HIV-1-discordant couples are an important population for prevention efforts. Consequently, HIV-1-discordant couples are increasingly viewed as a valuable source of participants for HIV vaccine and prevention trials. This review summarizes and critiques existing data on HIV-1-discordant couples in developing countries, including an analysis of transmission rates within discordant couples, description of biological and behavioral characteristics important in planning HIV-1 vaccine and prevention trials, and challenges faced when carrying out such studies.
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 1570162X
- Volume :
- 5
- Issue :
- 4
- Database :
- Supplemental Index
- Journal :
- Current HIV Research
- Publication Type :
- Periodical
- Accession number :
- ejs14704323