Key facts

• HIV continues to be a major global public health issue, having claimed more than 39 million lives so far. In 2013, 1.5 [1.4–1.7] million people died from HIV-related causes globally.
• There were approximately 35.0 [33.1–37.2] million people living with HIV at the end of 2013 with 2.1 [1.9–2.4] million people becoming newly infected with HIV in 2013 globally.
• Sub-Saharan Africa is the most affected region, with 24.7 [23.4–26.2] million people living with HIV in 2013. Also sub-Saharan Africa accounts for almost 70% of the global total of new HIV infections.
• HIV infection is usually diagnosed through blood tests detecting the presence or absence of HIV antibodies.
• There is no cure for HIV infection. However, effective treatment with antiretroviral drugs can control the virus so that people with HIV can enjoy healthy and productive lives.
• In 2013, 12.9 million people living with HIV were receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) globally, of which 11.7 million were receiving ART in low- and middle-income countries. The 11.7 million people on ART represent 36% [34–38%] of the 32.6 [30.7–34.8] million people living with HIV in low- and middle-income countries.

Paediatric coverage is still lagging, in 2013 less than 1 in 4 children living with HIV had access to ART, compared to 1 in 3 adults