Citation

Stephenson R. Indian J. Med. Sci. 2007; 61(5): 251.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Indian Journal of Medical Sciences Trust, Publisher Medknow Publications)

DOI

10.4103/0019-5359.32090

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Over the past two decades, two significant public health concerns have begun to draw increasing attention in India: the increasing prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the continued presence of high levels of domestic violence. Although HIV prevalence remains relatively low, India now has the largest absolute number of people living with HIV. An estimated adult prevalence of approximately 1% translates into 5.7 million people living with HIV, of which 37% are women under the age of 30. This epidemic is taking place in the context of a cultural environment which is characterized by high levels of violence and social norms that often support violence against women. In such a setting, it is important to understand the intersections between HIV and domestic violence; as successful attempts to reduce HIV prevalence must also entail interventions to reduce domestic violence.