Countries with the highest prevalence of HIV in 2000 and 2023

Among all countries worldwide those in sub-Saharan Africa have the highest rates of HIV. The countries with the highest rates of HIV include Eswatini, Lesotho, and South Africa. In 2023, Eswatini had the highest prevalence of HIV with a rate of around 25 percent. Other countries, such as Zimbabwe, have significantly decreased their HIV prevalence. Community-based HIV services are considered crucial to the prevention and treatment of HIV. 

HIV Worldwide

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a viral infection that is transmitted via exposure to infected semen, blood, vaginal and anal fluids and breast milk. HIV destroys the human immune system, rendering the host unable to fight off secondary infections. Globally, the number of people living with HIV has generally increased over the past two decades. However, the number of HIV-related deaths has decreased significantly in recent years. Despite being a serious illness that affects millions of people, medication exists that effectively manages the progression of the virus in the body. These medications are called antiretroviral drugs.

HIV Treatment

Generally, global access to antiretroviral treatment has increased in recent years. However, despite being available worldwide, not all adults have access to antiretroviral drugs. Europe and North America have the highest rates of antiretroviral use among people living with HIV. There are many different antiretroviral drugs available on the market. As of 2023, Biktarvy, an antiretroviral marketed by Gilead, was the leading HIV treatment based on revenue.