Teen girls are also still growing so their cervixes have lots of soft tissue which HIV can infect. In Africa fewer girls than boys go to school and this increases their chances of getting HIV as adults as they are less likely to find jobs.
Biology, unequal access to education and bad laws all play a role in this.
WATCH | Bhekisisa: Why do more teen girls than boys have HIV?
Teen girls and young women in Africa are up to eight times more likely to contract HIV than their male peers. This is because women’s bodies increase their chances of getting HIV through sex.
Teen girls are also still growing so their cervixes have lots of soft tissue which HIV can infect. In Africa fewer girls than boys go to school and this increases their chances of getting HIV as adults as they are less likely to find jobs.
Biology, unequal access to education and bad laws all play a role in this.
This story was produced by the Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism. Sign up for the newsletter.
MORE:
WATCH | Bhekisisa: Why the NHI wants your medical aid premium
WATCH | Bhekisisa: How should the government clean your tap water?
Sobering moments at opening of three-day Aids conference in Durban
Joe Phaahla's ambitious aim is to get 1.4-million HIV patients on treatment
Older men sleeping with young women a concern for HIV spread: doctor
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
News and promos in your inbox
subscribeMost read
Latest Videos