Ageing with HIV: global report highlights the need to prepare health systems
A new Lancet report highlights that the global HIV epidemic is shifting toward an older demographic, with projections suggesting over half of those living with HIV will be 50 or older by 2040. The study emphasizes the need for health systems to adapt to the specific needs of aging patients, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Why it matters
As antiretroviral therapy extends life expectancy, healthcare systems must pivot from acute care to managing chronic, age-related health challenges for HIV-positive populations.
Older adults are also acquiring HIV and being diagnosed later in life. But prevention and testing campaigns remain focused on younger people.
The Lancet HIV Commission on Ageing ’s 2026 report highlights how profoundly the global HIV epidemic is changing.
In 2025, an estimated 11.5 million (29%) people living with HIV were aged 50 years and older. This is projected to increase to 20.2 million by 2040. That would account for more than half (51%) of all people living with HIV. And, crucially, 96% will live in low- and middle-income countries. Sub-Saharan Africa is continuing to shoulder the greatest burden of the global HIV epidemic.
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