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HIV prevalence in Cambodia has reduced significantly in recent years.
In 2007 it was estimated that 0.9% of Cambodians aged 15 to 49 were living with HIV, compared to an estimated high of 2% in 1998 (NCHADS 2007).

This reduction in prevalence resulted from fewer new infections as well as high mortality. Cambodia’s success in reducing and reversing the spread of HIV has been attributed to effective prevention programs, particularly those focusing on increasing the use of condoms during commercial sex.

The HIV epidemic in Cambodia is evolving and it is important for the response to HIV and AIDS to keep evolving to remain effective.
Women now represent more than half of people living with HIV and it is estimated that half of new infections are in married women and one third are in infants as a result of mother to child transmission. These trends reflect the underlying gender dynamics of the epidemic, with extra-marital sex relatively acceptable for men, while it is difficult for women to suggest condom use with husbands.

There is also a danger of a second-wave of infections among most at risk groups.
Women engaged in entertainment work such as karaoke, massage and beer promotion are vulnerable since they may have sex with clients, who are less likely to use condoms with them than with brothel-based sex workers. Men who have sex with men and drug users are also vulnerable, marginalized and disproportionately affected by HIV.

Despite the reduction in prevalence, it is estimated that over 70,000 Cambodians are now living with HIV (NAA 2007).
Broader access to ART is significantly improving the health and survival of people living with HIV, but at the same time agencies involved in the response to HIV need to recognize and address their more complex needs beyond health in terms of livelihoods, food security, social integration and education. For children orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV and AIDS there are particular challenges in providing holistic support and protection.

Cambodia faces the challenges of HIV and AIDS against the backdrop of being one of the poorest and least developed countries in Asia.
Despite consistently strong economic growth over recent years, it is estimated that 35% of Cambodians live below the poverty line. A recent history of conflict is reflected in a young population, with 50% of Cambodians aged under 20 (NIPH/NIS & ORC Macro 2006).

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Initially established in 1996 as a project of International HIV/AIDS Alliance, KHANA operated as an NGO from 1997 and was officially registered as a local NGO in 2000. Since then it has operated as a linking organization of the International HIV/AIDS Alliance and is one of the most respected and recognized organizations focusing on HIV and AIDS in Cambodia today.more...

VISION
KHANA aspires to a Cambodia where all people have equal access to quality HIV and AIDS prevention, treatment, care and support, impact mitigation and related health and development opportunities.

MISSION
To contribute to the development, health and well-being of communities through reducing vulnerability and mitigating the impact of HIV and AIDS.

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