ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a framework for considering Human Immunodeficiency Virus /Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome HIV/AIDS in women from gender and feminist perspectives. Epidemiological, biological, demographic, and sociocultural factors combine to place women at higher risk than men for HIV/AIDS. The chapter outlines a few promising, innovative programs and policy approaches that account for this diversity and that recognize the particular contexts of girl's and women's lives. Girl's basic education and literacy may also play a role in HIV/AIDS prevention, although hard data are not available to support this claim. Many empowerment efforts have been introduced by nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and community groups that are well established and have local support and knowledge. Integrating STD/HIV prevention services into traditional health-care settings can increase women's access to STD treatment. HIV/AIDS is rarely addressed in feminist theory and research, excepting a recent study that looks at feminist strategies of empowerment.
