`This gripping narrative not only documents the history of humankind′s interaction with a clever virus, it brings to the forefront the much and understated and underused role of communication in HIV and AIDS prevention, care and treatment. Singhal and Rogers remind us that our global environment is shaped by powerful communication means and methods that, if properly harnessed, can help defeat the plague of the 21st century′ - Neil McKee, Senior Technical Advisor for HIV//AIDS and Adolescent Health, Johns Hopkins University
HIV//AIDS is a matter of global concern. The world is now more than 20 years into the HIV//AIDS crisis with no vaccine in sight, and relatively few effective and sustainable prevention programs. Although the rate of HIV infection and AIDS deaths has declined in the richer nations of the developed world, infection rates are soaring in developing countries. AIDS is now the leading cause of death in Africa, and the fourth leading cause of death globally.