Η εξάπλωση του ιού HIV σε παγκόσμια κλίμακα : ανάλυση δεδομένων και συμπεράσματα

Πινακούλα, Λουκία

The spread of HIV virus on a global scale : data analysis and conclusions

Master Thesis

Author

Πινακούλα, Λουκία

Date

2025-09

Abstract

The objective of this thesis is to investigate the global spread of the HIV virus over the period 1993–2023 (30 years), using data obtained from the World Health Organization (WHO). The dataset comprises both demographic variables and clinical-epidemiological factors related to HIV diagnosis, receipt or non-receipt of antiretroviral therapy, as well as specific population groups, such as pregnant women or women who had given birth. It spans different periods and countries, thereby enabling the identification of both positive developments in the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of HIV, and of the inequalities in socioeconomic conditions that affect access to health services across regions. The analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, with the R programming language. At the outset, the thesis examines the theoretical background of HIV, providing the scientific framework for the epidemiological analysis. In general, HIV is a virus characterized by high biological diversity and variations in its replication cycle, and it causes a chronic infection that represents a major global public health challenge. Subsequently, in the descriptive analysis, all statistical indicators of each variable were examined and discussed in detail. It was particularly highlighted that both the time period (year) and the continent exert a significant influence on the spread of the virus, with Africa presenting the highest prevalence rates compared to other regions. In parallel, the inferential statistical analysis revealed regional disparities, with the spread of the virus remaining uneven and specific regions and population groups experiencing a greater burden. For instance, Africa appears to exhibit positive outcomes, whereas in Europe and the Americas a slight but noticeable increase was observed. Based on the study, it can be inferred that HIV should not be regarded as an endemic event but rather as a social phenomenon influenced by regional factors. Finally, the findings of the study underscore the need to strengthen international prevention and treatment strategies through targeted interventions in high-risk areas. Overall, this thesis contributes to the understanding of the global dimension of HIV infection and provides valuable insights for public health policy and planning.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

Εφαρμοσμένη Στατιστική

Department

Σχολή Χρηματοοικονομικής και Στατιστικής. Τμήμα Στατιστικής και Ασφαλιστικής Επιστήμης

Number of pages

Language

Greek

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/18203

Collections

Τμήμα Στατιστικής και Ασφαλιστικής Επιστήμης

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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as
Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Μη Εμπορική Χρήση-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα