The Vulnerability Of Women - And Men To Hiv

Both men and women face significant vulnerabilities to HIV, though the drivers of these risks differ substantially across biological, social, and structural dimensions . As of 2024, approximately were living with HIV globally, with women and girls accounting for 53% of all cases. Biological Susceptibility

Gender norms and socioeconomic status play a critical role in determining exposure: Men and the HIV Epidemic The Vulnerability of Women and Men to HIV

: Shifts in the vaginal microbiome (e.g., bacterial vaginosis) or untreated STIs can increase HIV risk by up to 60% by causing local inflammation and attracting "target" CD4+ T cells to the area. Social and Behavioral Vulnerabilities Both men and women face significant vulnerabilities to

: Receptive partners are at greater risk because of the potential for mucosal tears during intercourse. In post-menopausal women, reduced estrogen leads to thinner vaginal mucosa, further increasing the likelihood of trauma and infection. This is due to a larger surface area

Biological differences primarily heighten the risk for cisgender women and receptive partners:

: Women are estimated to be twice as likely as men to acquire HIV per heterosexual act. This is due to a larger surface area of mucous membrane exposed and the fact that semen typically has a higher viral concentration than vaginal fluids.