The price of progress: Assessing the financial costs of HIV/AIDS management in East Africa

Abstract

The epidemic of HIV/AIDS, also known as human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), continues to be a major global public health concern with significant economic ramifications. East Africa is one of the severely hit regions. The East African economy suffers hugely due to the cost emanating from management of HIV infection. This review offers a thorough analysis of the financial burden of HIV/AIDS treatment, including direct medical costs, infrastructure costs for healthcare, social and indirect costs, and long-term sustainability difficulties. By examining epidemiological statistics, trends in healthcare spending, and socioeconomic factors, we clarify the complex financial environment surrounding HIV/AIDS. The paper also looks at ways to deal with these issues, highlighting the value of cooperation between governments, medical professionals, civil society organizations, and the global community. A thorough literature search that involved a wide range of credible sources, including academic databases (like PubMed, Google scholar, Science Direct, JSTOR), research repositories, government reports, and publications from nongovernmental organizations. It is possible to lessen the economic cost of HIV/AIDS and enhance results for impacted people and communities by making investments in prevention, treatment, and support services while addressing underlying structural concerns.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS; antiretroviral therapy; comorbidity; financial burden; healthcare infrastructure; public health.