Russia is huge, the problems are huge and regional differences are huge. The estimated numbers of those infected with HIV are between 850,000 and 1.4 million. Reliable figures are not available, but the fear among many doctors and researchers is that HIV is spreading rapidly. Cause: lack of awareness and a widely shared stigma. Daily life for many of those infected with HIV in Russia is extremely difficult and often not without danger. We are very proud of those Russian men and women who have had the courage to share their stories with you and us.