Explaining continued high HIV prevalence in South Africa: socioeconomic factors, HIV incidence and sexual behaviour change among a rural cohort, 2001–2004

Abstract

HIV incidence is high in rural South Africa, particularly among women of low education. Some risky sexual behaviours (early sexual debut, having multiple sexual partners) are becoming more common over time. Condom use is increasing. Existing HIV prevention strategies have only been partly effective in generating population-level behavioural change.