Myanmar has one of the largest AIDS epidemics in Asia. The nation’s extreme poverty, high levels of migration, growing sex industry, gender inequalities, and lack of economic resources make its AIDS epidemic very difficult to manage (UNAIDS-Myanmar). The disease affects all areas of society and it continues to spread at increasing rates each year. Prevalence rates are significantly higher among certain groups of society. Adult (15-49) Prevalence Rate is at 1.2%, 320000 people are living with HIV (including children) and 20,000 AIDS Related Deaths have been reported in 2003.

Misperceptions and stigmas surrounding HIV/AIDS are a huge barrier to successful prevention and treatment of the disease in Myanmar. Myanmar’s society has an extremely conservative attitude toward sexual relations and, therefore, issues relating to sexuality such as HIV/AIDS are not openly discussed. In addition, the ruling military regime has made AIDS a taboo subject. Because of this lack of education and awareness, misperceptions and stigmas about the virus are common. This is due to low condom use, a large sex industry, and a lack of information and education about the problem. Not enough HIV testing facilities are available throughout the country either. 

The government of Myanmar reiterated their commitment that HIV/AIDS prevention is a national priority, yet the military regime in Myanmar has not yet allowed any prevention campaigns on radio or television (The Economist: July 2, 2005). Also, the country has very limited resources to deal with the problem. Health services are poor and only 18% of those infected have access to antiretroviral treatments. In fact, in 2003, 42,000 PLHIV were in need of antiretroviral treatment, but unable to receive (World Health Organisation). This lack of resources (partially a result of the country’s political situation) has made it extremely difficult to prevent the spread of the epidemic. This section links you to resources, news, events and organisations working on HIV/AIDS in Myanmar.