Vulnerabilities, impacts, and responses to HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Introduction
Since the identification of AIDS and subsequent HIV in 1980’s, several studies were carried out to determine risk factors associated to its distribution around the world. Most of such studies were influenced by biomedical perspective with a focus on risk without much emphasis on vulnerability. However, as depicted in the book under review, “… culture, religion, health, illness and sexuality intersect in the everyday lives of people. Despite this, the scientific discourse regarding HIV/AIDS is dominated by biomedical understanding and … social and cultural aspects of the disease are often marginalized”. Building on available literature and experiences in response to HIV and AIDS, the book scanned through the social, political and cultural context of HIV and AIDS that determine not only the understanding of HIV and AIDS, but also design and implementation of interventions.