The AIDS Epidemic: Lessons Learned?

Many asked in Durban how the unfolding tragedy in Africa occurred. There are numerous reasons-the long interval between HIV and AIDS, the sexual route of HIV transmission, other pressing priorities on the continent, and benign neglect of Africa and its problems. Dire predictions on numbers of HIV infections and AIDS cases-all of which have come true-were either not believed or else ignored. The epidemic received appropriate attention only when millions more fell ill and their need for treatment became apparent. A more urgent question is whether those in Durban will attend an AIDS conference 10 years from now in India or China, facing an epidemic of even greater dimensions, asking how it could have happened again. This will depend on our commitment to HIV prevention. There is no greater priority for international health and development and little time is left to do what needs to be done.