We study the long-term determinants of the high rates of HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among women … trade. First we show that, in clusters where polygyny is more widespread, HIV infection rates are higher. By instrumenting … polygyny is likely to affect HIV infection by focusing on sexual behavior, as captured by the intensity of sexual activity and …

endogenous response to HIV risk may explain why the HIV/AIDS epidemic has coincided with systematic marriage and pregnancy delays. … revealed over time. Sexual safety is an important but hidden partner attribute, especially in areas where HIV is endemic. A … more so if they are also attractive. Frequent HIV testing may enable safe people to signal and screen. Consistent with …

. Counterintuitively, but consistent with historical narratives and theoretical predictions, HIV prevalence is lower today on the former … - which promote HIV's spread - have long been smaller in this region, as circular migration allowed much younger men to afford …