The Vulnerability Of Women And Men To Hiv May 2026

: Shifts in the vaginal microbiome (e.g., bacterial vaginosis) or untreated STIs can increase HIV risk by up to 60% by causing local inflammation and attracting "target" CD4+ T cells to the area. Social and Behavioral Vulnerabilities

Both men and women face significant vulnerabilities to HIV, though the drivers of these risks differ substantially across biological, social, and structural dimensions . As of 2024, approximately were living with HIV globally, with women and girls accounting for 53% of all cases. Biological Susceptibility The Vulnerability of Women and Men to HIV

Gender norms and socioeconomic status play a critical role in determining exposure: Men and the HIV Epidemic : Shifts in the vaginal microbiome (e

: Women are estimated to be twice as likely as men to acquire HIV per heterosexual act. This is due to a larger surface area of mucous membrane exposed and the fact that semen typically has a higher viral concentration than vaginal fluids. In post-menopausal women, reduced estrogen leads to thinner

: Receptive partners are at greater risk because of the potential for mucosal tears during intercourse. In post-menopausal women, reduced estrogen leads to thinner vaginal mucosa, further increasing the likelihood of trauma and infection.