Population-based surveys undertaken during this period demonstrate, in addition to the rapid rise in HIV infection, the striking difference in age and gender distribution of HIV infection.

The figure illustrates the early rise of infection in young women between the ages of 15-19 years compared to a later rise of infection in men at about age 25-29 years. The high incidence rates in young women is a key factor driving the spread of HIV in South Africa during this period.

Source:

Abdool Karim Q, Abdool Karim SS, Singh B, Short R, Ngxongo S. Prevalence of HIV infection in Rural South Africa. AIDS 1992; 6: 1535 - 1539