Uncertainty in key population size estimates in sub-Saharan Africa

The Lancet "Key populations contribute substantially to the disproportionate burden of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for about 25% of the total new HIV infections in 2022. Despite their increased risk of HIV, social and structural barriers have continued to limit them from seeking and receiving appropriate HIV prevention, treatment, and care services. Consequently, key populations are lagging in the remarkable progress towards attaining control of the HIV epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa. The urgent need to address the gaps in service coverage among key populations, particularly in repressive and low-income settings, requires insight into their population size for data-driven planning and equitable resource allocation."

• The Lancet