Previously known as AIDS Update, this is the 12th annual publication to provide information about actions taken by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to prevent the spread of HIV infection and promote reproductive and sexual health concerns. In 2002, AIDS claimed 3.1 million lives. Several trends emerged during 2002, including a rise in infections amongst women, and the fact that the food crisis is compounding the epidemic in Southern Africa. Globally, five million people were newly infected in 2002, the equivalent of about 14,000 people each day, with more than 95 per cent of these in developing countries. It is estimated that 42 million people are now living with HIV/AIDS, with one third aged 15 to 24 years. AIDS is the leading cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa, and the fourth biggest killer worldwide.