New infections in sub-Saharan Africa 15 percent lower in 2008 , report says . That area remains the region hardest-hit by HIV . Decline attributed in part to HIV prevention efforts , UNAIDS official says . In addition , the number of people living with HIV , the virus that causes AIDS , has increased , and over the last five years , AIDS deaths have declined by 10 percent , thanks to antiretroviral drug therapy and access to lifesaving treatments , said the report by the Joint U.N . Comment: Number living with HIV has increased , and AIDS deaths have declined over five years .
New infections in sub-Saharan Africa 15 percent lower in 2008 , report says . That area remains the region hardest-hit by HIV . Decline attributed in part to HIV prevention efforts , UNAIDS official says . Comment: Number living with HIV has increased , and AIDS deaths have declined over five years .