Fighting in the shadows: Health policies and data availability about HIV/AIDS a case study in Apulia (Italy)

Abstract

Despite the interventions enacted by the EU in 2009/2013 to fight HIV/AIDS, the latest Italian budget measures contain important cuts to health expenditure. These cuts are not allowing local authorities to develop health policies to fight against the epidemic in an efficient way by limiting both prevention and care.The main purpose is to analyze the incidence and policies regarding HIV/AIDS in Italy through a case study in the Apulia Region. First, are examined the national policy strategies and the modifications introduced by local authorities to face HIV/AIDS. Subsequently, are described the incidence and the main features of HIV/AIDS in Italy and Apulia; identifying the socio-demographic profile of an HIV-positive-individuals sample. The Italian situation regarding HIV/AIDS is still surrounded of shadows. The study of the infected population gives significant clues about the interventions that are needed, and constitutes the basis for public health policy and planning at a local level. © 2014 Springer International Publishing.