Women on treatment have longer life expectancy: HIV study
Research has revealed that life expectancy among women on anti-retrovirals has exceeded that of men since the HIV treatment became available in South Africa.
The study was conducted by scientists from the Africa Centre for Population Health in Mtubatuba and Boston University's Jacob Bor.
The team has done research in northern KwaZulu-Natal over the past 15 years covering a population of about 100 000 to understand the impact of ARV therapy on death.
They have found that between 2003 and 2011 - female adult life expectancy increased by 13.2 years, while male life expectancy improved only by nine years.
Director of the Africa Centre for Population Studies, Deenan Pillay says once men get into treatment they benefit just as much as women but getting them on treatment is the challenge.
"It is becoming clear that the problem is that men in general are less likely to be tested for HIV and even if they're found to be infected - are less likely to make it into clinics to start ARV therapy.
"Efforts must be expanded on really supporting structures that encourage and allow men to be tested and to get into care," he said.
(File photo)