Survey – HIV prevalence in Gauteng drops

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) has revealed that in Gauteng, HIV prevalence peaked at 32.2% among those aged 50 and 54 in 2022.

The key findings of the Sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence and Behaviour Survey (SABSSM VI) for Gauteng were discussed recently at a provincial dialogue held at the ANEW Hotel Parktonian in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.

The data presented are for five priority districts of Gauteng – the cities of Tshwane, Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Sedibeng and West Rand.

Among the five districts, the highest HIV prevalence was in Sedibeng (13.2%).

Gauteng’s antiretroviral treatment (ART) coverage increased to 73.4% in 2022 from 56.0% in 2017.

The survey also found that compared to other provinces, Gauteng had the third-lowest HIV prevalence, at 11.9% in 2022 and 12.1% in 2017.

This translates to an estimated 1 720 000 people living with HIV in Gauteng in 2022, representing an insignificant 0.2% decline from the 1 780 000 reported in 2017.

The findings also showed that, in 2022, HIV prevalence in the province was disproportionately higher among those aged 25 to 49 years (20.0%), for females (24.9%) and males (14.1%).

HIV prevalence was also higher among those living in rural formal or farm areas (12.7%).

According to the overall principal investigator of the study, the HSRC’s Professor Khangelani Zuma, in 2017, the prevalence peak was in a younger age group, at 31.9% among those aged 35 to 39 years.

“There was a decrease in HIV prevalence in 2022 among all age groups younger than 40 years compared to 2017. It is, however, concerning that even though the epidemic is ageing, there seems to be a possibility of new infections still happening in the older age groups,” Zuma noted.

Knowledge of HIV status
Zuma expressed concern that people living with HIV aged 25 to 49 account for the most people living with HIV in Gauteng who are unaware of their HIV status. The figure sits at 61.8%.

People who are aware of their HIV status but not on ART sit at 64.6%, and those on ART but not virally suppressed sit at 64.6%.

He also noted that adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 contribute disproportionally to gaps in treatment, accounting for just 6.8% of all people living with HIV.

Ignorance is not bliss
Thabo Mohoto, the departmental head at Wordsworth High School, is appealing to teachers and society to advocate for the inclusion of HIV and Aids education in schools to make a significant difference in controlling the virus’ spread and supporting those affected by it.

“In recent years, the focus of education has shifted significantly towards modern challenges such as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, political turbulence and the Covid-19 pandemic.

“While these issues are undoubtedly important, they have overshadowed the crucial need for comprehensive HIV and Aids education in our schools. As an educator, I have observed the alarming absence of HIV and Aids awareness programmes in our curriculum, which is a grave concern given the persistent threat of this epidemic.”

Mohoto said despite global advancements in the fight against HIV and Aids, SA remains one of the most affected regions.

“Educational initiatives on HIV and Aids are essential for several reasons. First, they equip young people with the knowledge to protect themselves. While mechanisms and strategies to curb the virus have advanced, fewer programmes are teaching our children about these advancements.

“For instance, comprehensive readings, educational cartoons and programs like Love Life can be instrumental in providing this necessary education.

“Awareness campaigns and education help to combat the stigma associated with HIV and Aids. By understanding the disease, learners can develop empathy and support for those affected, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.”

He shared that education empowers the vulnerable to protect themselves against sexual harassment and seek help when needed.

“Visiting local clinics for preventive measures and treatment should be a normalised and encouraged practice. The Department of Education must revisit and revise the curriculum to include comprehensive HIV and Aids education. Silence is not an option.

“If we do not address this issue, we risk a resurgence of the epidemic in our communities,” said Mohoto.

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