HIV/AIDS
Welcome from the Chair
HIV/AIDS remains one of the most serious public health problems facing humankind. The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) estimate that AIDS has killed more than 25 million people since it was first recognized in 1981. As a result, 14 million children have lost one or both of their parents due to the disease. As of 2008, there were 33.4 million individuals living with HIV/AIDs worldwide; including 2.1 million children. As the pandemic continues, more research is needed to advance policy and the practice of HIV prevention, care, and treatment.
The HIV/AIDS Section of the APHA represents approximately 800 members, from varied backgrounds, who are devoted to not only ending the pandemic, but bettering the lives of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. In an effort to carry out our mission, our section sponsors a strong scientific program at the APHA Annual Meeting by focusing on HIV/AIDS policy, prevention, care, and treatment. Annually, our section sponsors over 300 presentations and co-sponsors select sessions from other Sections, SPIGs, and Caucuses that are relevant to HIV/AIDS and of interest to our members.
In addition to the APHA Annual Meeting, we have multiple opportunities to learn about and get involved with our Section. We offer ongoing opportunities to network with public health colleagues and we provide a forum for policy advocacy to shape HIV/AIDS-related research, prevention, care, and treatment. Since AIDS awareness and educational efforts are limited and research and program funding have been reduced, it is imperative that we all join in the fight against HIV/AIDS; both nationally and internationally.
As Chair of the HIV/AIDS Section, I encourage you to join our Section and become a member of our family. Join APHA and the HIV/AIDS Section. If you are already an APHA member and belong to another section, you can now join the HIV/AIDS Section as a second section for only $30. Contact Jessica Murray for details. Also, now it is possible to donate money online directly to the APHA HIV/AIDS Section. Please give what you can.
Tania B. Basta, Ph.D., MPH, CHES
Ohio University
HIV/AIDS Section Chair
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