Children Affected by Aids in Brazil

Abstract

This study has the main objective of estimating the number of children under 14 in Brazil whose mothers are (1) HIV positive, (2) living with AIDS and (3) dead due to AIDS. In September 1997 there were an estimated 15,900 children whose mothers had died of AIDS; 57,600 children whose mothers had AIDS; and 136,650 children whose mothers were HIV positive. Of the total 210,150 children, 17,600 were HIV positive themselves. The number of children whose mothers have died of AIDS is estimated to increase to 27,000 by the year 2002. There is likely to be a mass displacement of children in Brazil. To increase the longevity of the person with AIDS and decrease the likelihood of children displacement and severe deterioration of the family, new programs are essential.