The nongovernmental organization Lifeline Khayelitsha HIV, working in the township of Khayelitsha, South Africa, reports that some individuals diagnosed with AIDS have turned to alcohol due to stress. Some HIV-positive mothers in the township have admitted that they stopped their antiretroviral (ARV) treatment and turned to alcohol instead. Western Cape health officials say that they are constantly trying to address this issue with their patients. Lifeline Khayelitsha HIV Program Manager Mpho Modise commented that some patients are drinking because of stress and that the organization tries to assist by offering counseling to couples.

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