HIV-related Language: PAHO 2006 Update

In order to promote the use of language that is appropriate for the current phase of the epidemic and consonant with the Latin American and Caribbean response to HIV, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued the HIV-related Language: PAHO 2006 Update. This document, which includes both English and Spanish instructions, builds on existing guidelines. Some of the suggested changes are straightforward, while others may be challenging. Each recommendation includes the new language suggested and the rationale for the change. Key changes include the preferred use of the terms "HIV", instead of "HIV/AIDS" (a change that PAHO is still implementing), "sida" instead of "SIDA" (in Spanish), "sex worker" instead of "commercial sex worker", "people with HIV" instead of "PLWHA" and its variations, and the use of "homosexual men", "gay", and other non-derogatory and culturally appropriate terms when adequate.