Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and suicide in a region of Eastern Province ("Transkei"), South Africa.

HIV/AIDS is an alarming illness worldwide. It is known to have a significant association to suicide, despite a lack of in depth study. Early studies suggested suicide risk 20 to 36 times higher than the general population, but more recent trends in America show a decline. This is not true in Africa, including the region of Eastern Province, South Africa. There is abundant political and health discussion, but little study. This article presents descriptive statistics and case histories. These beginning studies must be augmented by comprehensive study of not only the epidemiology, but also the psychological and social correlates. Regrettably, there are numerous obstacles to such study in South Africa.