NURS FPX 8014 Assessment 2 Global Issue Problem
NURS FPX 8014 Assessment 2 Global Issue Problem
Name
Capella university
NURS FPX 8014 Global Population Health
Prof. Name
Date
Global Issue Problem Description
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), has persisted as a serious public health challenge for over four decades, affecting nearly 40 million individuals globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that as of 2023, approximately 39.9 million people are living with HIV, with 65% of them residing in Africa. That same year, HIV-related complications led to around 630,000 deaths, while another 1.3 million people contracted the virus (WHO, 2024). This assessment reviews the extent of the issue, identifies affected populations, and discusses intervention strategies, focusing particularly on a proposed project for the Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) region.
Description of the Problem
Global Public Health Issue and Epidemiological Data
Based on verified sources, HIV/AIDS continues to be a widespread epidemic globally, with SSA carrying a disproportionate share of the burden. As per UNAIDS, in 2020, South Africa alone recorded 7.8 million people living with HIV. Among individuals aged 15 to 49, the country exhibits a national HIV prevalence rate of 18.8%, accounting for nearly 5.5 million cases. Despite international and national efforts to address this issue, the disease remains highly prevalent (Bingham et al., 2021).
HIV/AIDS affects various facets of healthcare and socio-economic development in SSA. In 2022, South Africa reported 85,796 deaths attributed to AIDS (Statista, 2022). Other highly impacted countries include Mozambique, with 2.2 million cases, India at 2.1 million, Uganda with 1.4 million, and Tanzania at 1.4 million (Schousboe & Wejse, 2021). The epidemic continues to exert immense pressure on healthcare systems, national economies, and communities within the region.
Vulnerable Populations
Certain demographic groups in SSA are at a higher risk of HIV infection. These include women aged 15–24, men aged 20–29, and individuals residing in impoverished, rural, or marginalized communities (Risher et al., 2021). Factors such as limited access to healthcare, widespread stigma, and inadequate health education hinder effective prevention and treatment efforts. Additionally, disparities persist across countries and regions, with SSA—despite facing the heaviest HIV/AIDS burden—having the fewest resources to manage it effectively.
Multiple challenges, such as political instability, underfunded healthcare infrastructure, poorly designed health programs, weak medical governance, and restricted financial resources for treatment and prevention initiatives, hinder HIV/AIDS control efforts (Malakoane et al., 2020). Current research emphasizes the need for substantial financial and policy investments by regional authorities to reduce HIV/AIDS mortality rates and improve population health outcomes.
Analysis of the Global Health Issue
Impact on Individuals
HIV/AIDS significantly affects the health and well-being of individuals, particularly in SSA. Infected individuals experience an elevated risk of secondary infections and opportunistic diseases, contributing to higher mortality rates. Symptoms frequently include persistent fatigue, fever, weight loss, chronic diarrhea, night sweats, and opportunistic infections (Berhan et al., 2022). Psychologically, those living with HIV/AIDS often endure stigma, discrimination, and mental health challenges.
Patients commonly experience depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments, reducing their ability to work and lead productive lives (Winston & Spudich, 2020). The illness also imposes heavy financial costs on individuals and families, affecting their living standards and social participation.
Impact on Communities
High HIV/AIDS prevalence overburdens community healthcare systems and increases healthcare costs. The economic impact extends beyond direct medical expenses, contributing to widespread poverty and social inequality (Bingham et al., 2021). In South Africa, for example, the disease disproportionately affects Black communities, where over 6.2 million of the 6.4 million affected people belong to this demographic. Other vulnerable groups include mixed-race communities of African and Indian descent (Bell et al., 2022).
Moreover, high absenteeism rates in schools due to parents’ illness or death negatively impact children’s education and future socio-economic prospects. Educational institutions face staff shortages and increased dropout rates (Zinyemba et al., 2020). According to research, children with HIV-positive mothers attain, on average, 30% less education than their peers.
Impact on Populations
Entire populations suffer persistent health and economic challenges due to the ongoing HIV/AIDS crisis. Bulled and Singer (2020) observed that countries with high HIV/AIDS rates, such as South Africa, witnessed a GDP decline of 5–10% in 2020. This economic strain contributes to poverty cycles and undermines public health advancements.
HIV/AIDS reduces workforce productivity and increases national healthcare expenditures. As of 2023, nearly 40 million people globally were living with HIV/AIDS (WHO, 2024). These demands place enormous pressure on public health budgets and international aid, requiring significant investment in disease prevention, diagnosis, and care.
Social and Political Ramifications
Unchecked HIV/AIDS outbreaks can produce substantial social and political consequences, especially in SSA. Prolonged disease prevalence strains families, communities, and healthcare systems, exacerbating poverty and reducing quality of life (Bingham et al., 2021). Disruptions in education and employment limit human capital development and future economic potential.
Politically, governments face heightened pressure to control the epidemic, with potential unrest if public health responses are inadequate. HIV/AIDS draws critical resources away from other sectors, worsening fragile economies and increasing social inequalities (Frimpong et al., 2021). Persistent health challenges can also erode public trust in governments and international agencies, potentially destabilizing leadership and governance.
Social Determinants Impacting the Problem
Approximately 65% of HIV/AIDS cases occur in SSA (WHO, 2024). Populations in rural and economically disadvantaged areas are especially vulnerable due to poverty, limited health education, and stigma. Social determinants such as poverty limit access to preventive tools, including condoms, HIV testing, and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).
Research by Nagai et al. (2024) revealed that fewer than 28% of eligible individuals in SSA have access to PrEP services due to resource constraints. Furthermore, HIV/AIDS treatment costs consume significant household income, making continuous medical care unaffordable for many. Education also plays a critical role; SSA has a literacy rate of just 67.72%, impeding effective dissemination of health information.
Additionally, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, staff shortages, and long travel distances to clinics limit early diagnosis and treatment in rural regions (Tran et al., 2023). These social determinants create cycles of illness, poverty, and restricted healthcare access, perpetuating the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Cultural Impact on the Global Health Issue
Cultural traditions and beliefs in SSA significantly influence HIV/AIDS prevention and care. In many communities, discussing sexual health or using condoms is considered taboo. Conversations about sexual well-being within families or public forums are often avoided due to shame or cultural restrictions (Setia et al., 2022).
Furthermore, misconceptions persist regarding HIV/AIDS causes and treatment. Language barriers, stigma, and discriminatory beliefs reduce individuals’ willingness to seek testing and treatment services (Asrina et al., 2023). Addressing these cultural barriers requires educational outreach and community involvement to promote accurate knowledge and reduce stigma.
Geographical Impact on the Global Health Issue
Geographical factors also play a critical role in HIV/AIDS prevalence and transmission in SSA. The region’s diverse ecology, ranging from deserts to rainforests, affects disease patterns and healthcare delivery. For instance, areas with heavy rainfall and humidity support conditions for bloodborne diseases, including HIV via transfusions (Obeagu et al., 2024).
Additionally, population mobility across borders and rural-to-urban migration accelerates HIV transmission. Isolated rural regions face heightened prevalence rates due to limited healthcare infrastructure and restricted prevention programs (Risher et al., 2021). Mitigating geographical disparities requires comprehensive public health initiatives and infrastructure investments tailored to each area’s specific needs.
References
Asrina, A., Ikhtiar, M., Idris, F. P., Adam, A., & Alim, A. (2023). Community stigma and discrimination against the incidence of HIV and AIDS. Journal of Medicine and Life, 16(9), 1327. https://doi.org/10.25122%2Fjml-2023-0171
Bell, G. J., Jabulani Ncayiyana, Ari Sholomon, Goel, V., Khangelani Zuma, & Emch, M. (2022). Race, place, and HIV: The legacies of apartheid and racist policy in South Africa. Social Science & Medicine, 296, 114755–114755. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.114755
NURS FPX 8014 Assessment 2 Global Issue Problem
Berhan, A., Bayleyegn, B., & Getaneh, Z. (2022). HIV/AIDS associated lymphoma. Blood and Lymphatic Cancer: Targets and Therapy, 31-45. https://doi.org/10.2147/BLCTT.S361320
Bingham, A., Shrestha, R. K., Khurana, N., Jacobson, E. U., & Farnham, P. G. (2021). Estimated lifetime HIV–related medical costs in the United States. Sexually Transmitted Diseases, 48(4), 299–304. https://doi.org/10.1097/olq.0000000000001366
Birdthistle, I., Mulwa, S., Sarrassat, S., Baker, V., Khanyile, D., O’Donnell, D., & Cousens, S. (2022). Effects of a multimedia campaign on HIV self-testing and PrEP outcomes among young people in South Africa: A mixed-methods impact evaluation of ‘MTV Shuga Down South’. British Medical Journal Global Health, 7(4), e007641. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007641
Bomfim, I. G. D. O., Santos, S. D. S., & Napoleão, A. A. (2022). Adherence to antiretroviral therapy in people living with HIV/AIDS: A cross-sectional study. AIDS Patient Care and STDs, 36(7), 278-284. https://doi.org/10.1089/apc.2022.0056
Bulled, N., & Singer, M. (2020). In the shadow of HIV & TB: A commentary on the COVID epidemic in South Africa. Global Public Health, 15(8), 1231-1243. https://doi.org/10.1080/17441692.2020.1775275
Frimpong, A. G., Agbemenu, K., & Orom, H. (2021). A review of cultural influences on risk for HIV and culturally-responsive risk mitigation strategies among African immigrants in the US. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 12(2). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-020-01138-8
Garg, P. R., Uppal, L., Mehra, S., & Mehra, D. (2020). Mobile health app for self-learning on HIV prevention knowledge and services among a young Indonesian key population: cohort study. Journal of Medical Internet Research mHealth and uHealth, 8(9), e17646. https://doi.org/10.2196/17646
Kimeng, L. C. M. (2024). Socio-economic effects of HIV and AIDS in the development organizations of Donga-Mantung division. International Journal of Integrative and Modern Medicine, 2(7), 116-150. http://medicaljournals.eu/index.php/IJIMM/article/view/798
NURS FPX 8014 Assessment 2 Global Issue Problem
Malakoane, B., Heunis, J. C., P. Chikobvu, Kigozi, N. G., & Kruger, W. H. (2020). Public health system challenges in the Free State, South Africa: A situation appraisal to inform health system strengthening. BioMed Central Health Services Research, 20(1), 58. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-019-4862-y
Nagai, H., Ankomah, A., Fuseini, K., Adiibokah, E., Semahegn, A., & Tagoe, H. (2024). HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake among high-risk population in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. AIDS Patient Care and STDs, 38(2), 70-81. https://doi.org/10.1089/apc.2023.0117
Obeagu, E. I., Mami, D. M., & Obeagu, G. U. (2024). Climate change as a driver of HIV transmission dynamics: A review. Elite Journal of HIV, 2(4), 110-127. https://epjournals.com/journals/EJHIV
Risher, K. A., Cori, A., Reniers, G., Marston, M., Calvert, C., Crampin, A., Dadirai, T., Dube, A., Gregson, S., Herbst, K., Lutalo, T., Moorhouse, L., Mtenga, B., Nabukalu, D., Newton, R., Price, A. J., Tlhajoane, M., Todd, J., Tomlin, K., & Urassa, M. (2021). Age patterns of HIV incidence in eastern and southern Africa: A modelling analysis of observational population-based cohort studies. The Lancet HIV, 8(7), e429–e439. https://doi.org/10.1016/s2352-3018(21)00069-2
Schatz, E., Knight, L., Mukumbang, F. C., Teti, M., & Myroniuk, T. W. (2021). “You have to withstand that because you have come for what you have come for”: Barriers and facilitators to antiretroviral treatment access among older South Africans living with HIV. Sociology of Health & Illness, 43(3), 624-641. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-9566.13243.
Schousboe, C., & Wejse, C. (2021). HIV prevalence in migrant groups based on country of origin: A systematic review on data obtained between 1993 and 2020. Sustainability, 13(21), 11642. https://doi.org/10.3390/su132111642
Setia, B., Ni, & Pande Putu Januraga. (2022). Open communication about reproductive health is associated with comprehensive HIV knowledge and a non-stigmatising attitude among Indonesian youth: A Cross-sectional Study. Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, 55(4), 342–350. https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.21.581
Sorokina, A., Anchakova, E., & Dashinimaev, E. (2023). Strategies for HIV-1 suppression through key genes and cell therapy. Frontiers in Medicine, 10, 1259995. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2023.1259995
Statista. (2022). South Africa: Number of deaths from AIDS 2002-2022. statista.com https://www.statista.com/statistics/1331607/number-of-deaths-from-aids-in-south-africa/#:~:text=In%202022%2C%20the%20estimated%20number,the%20country%20reached%20nearly%2088%2C000.
Tran, D. N., Ching, J., Kafu, C., Wachira, J., Koros, H., Venkataramani, M., & Genberg, B. L. (2023). Interruptions to HIV care delivery during pandemics and natural disasters: A qualitative study of challenges and opportunities from frontline healthcare providers in Western Kenya. Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care, 22, 23259582231152041. https://doi.org/10.1177/23259582231152041
UNAIDS. (2022). South Africa. UNAIDS.org. https://www.unaids.org/en/regionscountries/countries/southafrica
WHO. (2024). HIV and AIDS. WHO.int. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2ou2BhCCARIsANAwM2Gecx91cphiGnKzSbZB_vxZr3VFhebt4JwfxzLNHTvFVz-JSw-upzQaAt7TEALw_wcB
Winston, A., & Spudich, S. (2020). Cognitive disorders in people living with HIV. The Lancet HIV, 7(7), e504-e513. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2352-3018(20)30107-7
Zinyemba, P. T., Pavlova, M., & Groot, W. (2020). Effects of HIV/AIDS on children’s educational attainment: A systematic literature review. Journal of Economic Surveys, 34(1), 35-84. https://doi.org/10.1111/joes.12345
Appendix A: Project Proposal
Project Title
“HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management Strategies in Sub-Saharan Africa”
Target Population
This educational initiative focuses on individuals aged 18–45 years residing in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), particularly those at increased risk for HIV infection and individuals already living with HIV.
Project Setting
The intervention will take place in rural communities within South Africa, a country with one of the highest rates of HIV/AIDS globally. Activities will be coordinated through local community health centers and regional clinics to ensure accessibility.
Project Objectives
- Enhance public knowledge and awareness regarding HIV prevention, treatment, and management in the SSA region, with particular attention to South Africa.
- Increase access to essential services such as HIV testing, treatment options, and healthcare facilities.
- Reduce stigma and social discrimination associated with HIV infection.
Project Strategies
Educational Initiatives
A comprehensive set of educational tools and resources will be designed collaboratively with regional healthcare providers, community leaders, affected individuals, and other stakeholders. These materials will be culturally tailored, easily understandable, widely accessible, and available in multiple languages to suit the diverse local population (Birdthistle et al., 2022).
Community-Based Outreach
Trained healthcare workers, educators, and community health advocates will conduct outreach programs in both urban and rural settings. These programs will promote public education on safe practices such as condom use, access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and the importance of sterile medical equipment. The outreach will include health fairs, community dialogues, and wellness campaigns to engage residents directly.
HIV Testing and Treatment Services
Mobile health clinics and community-based hospitals will offer confidential HIV testing, counseling, and treatment services. These clinics, overseen by licensed healthcare professionals, aim to improve early detection and support for individuals living with HIV, thereby contributing to better health outcomes (Frimpong et al., 2021).
Addressing Stigma and Discrimination
An awareness campaign will be launched to tackle the stigma and prejudice linked to HIV. The initiative will use various platforms, including social media, print media, and public events, to foster open conversations about HIV risk, prevention, and care options, thereby promoting social acceptance and understanding (Birdthistle et al., 2022).
Evaluation
- Conduct routine surveys, structured interviews, and participant feedback sessions to monitor project effectiveness.
- Track ART adherence rates and the prevalence of AIDS cases to evaluate program outcomes over time.
Sustainability
- Seek continuous funding and support from local governments, international donors, and charitable organizations.
- Train local healthcare providers and community volunteers to ensure program continuity and community ownership.
Assumptions
- Existing healthcare infrastructure can support HIV testing, care, and treatment services.
- Community members will be receptive to participating in HIV prevention and treatment initiatives.
- Adequate financial and logistical support will be available for program implementation.
Appendix B: Meeting Summary
Presenting the proposed HIV/AIDS prevention and management program for SSA to a local health official proved to be a valuable practicum experience. It allowed me to bridge academic knowledge with tangible global health challenges while practicing the effective delivery of a comprehensive public health strategy. I felt a mix of anticipation and responsibility given the critical nature of addressing such a pervasive health crisis.
The proposal was well-received during the meeting, with the health official acknowledging the comprehensive nature of the plan and emphasizing the importance of community engagement and long-term program sustainability. Constructive feedback provided during the discussion helped me refine aspects of the proposal, including enhancing the project’s evaluation framework and ensuring alignment with the objectives of local health authorities.
This engagement presented several opportunities for personal and professional growth. I gained practical experience in articulating complex global health interventions clearly and effectively. Additionally, the meeting reinforced the importance of adapting communication styles to suit diverse stakeholders and highlighting both the cultural relevance and operational feasibility of public health initiatives. Moving forward, I will prioritize sustained stakeholder involvement to strengthen program acceptance and success. This practicum reinforced my understanding of HIV/AIDS prevention strategies and enhanced my capacity to lead community-based public health programs in diverse, resource-limited settings.
