1. The HIV epidemic in Zimbabwe—The penalty of silence.
- Author
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Ray, Sunanda and Madzimbamuto, Farai
- Subjects
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HIV infections , *HIV , *AIDS , *MEDICAL care , *MEDICINE - Abstract
This paper traces the rise of the HIV pandemic in Zimbabwe and also traces the history of official silence about it. The paper argues that women are a particularly vulnerable group, but are often the most deprived of treatment. The spread of the disease within the Zimbabwean diaspora is also described and it is pointed out how British asylum procedures can discourage bearers of the disease from seeking medical opinion and help. The medical profession within Zimbabwe itself is castigated as not having been ready to take a stand against silence and on behalf of patient choice and empowerment, and the Zimbabwean situation is contrasted with those in Uganda and South Africa. The paper makes a passionate call for engagement nationally, professionally and internationally with the Zimbabwe pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2006
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