Introduction

Abstract

This chapter provides a broad introduction to recognising the importance of religion to both individual and public health, as well as the interaction between HIV and religion in the Muslim World. It discusses the importance of religion in attitudes to HIV, acknowledging that there has been a strong tendency in countries with predominantly Muslim populations for HIV/AIDS to be ignored or even denied. The study reported in this book is intended to contribute substantially to understanding regarding HIV amongst Muslims in Malaysia and the wider Muslim World.