This Handbook is a tool for extending the reach of effective responses to HIV/AIDS where they are needed most. There are over 40 million PLHA in the world today, and 95 percent live in resource-constrained countries. Until and unless the impact of AIDS is reduced, these countries face little prospect of building a more secure and prosperous future. The Handbook emphasizes crosscutting issues such as gender, human rights, capacity building, sustainability and community involvement in the design and implementation of interventions. It consists of seven sections with individual chapters that address topics such as reducing risk and vulnerability to HIV infection, strengthening STD management services, and prospects for the future.