Final answer:
The high rate of HIV infection among marriage-age men is a key factor in the marriage crisis in sub-Saharan Africa, severely impacting the demographic with nearly 70 percent of the world's HIV cases in the region and contributing to high mortality rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major cause of the "marriage crisis" in sub-Saharan Africa is the high rate of HIV infection among men of marriageable age. Despite progressive measures such as widespread condom use, circumcision, and public health campaigns, HIV/AIDS continues to have a severe impact on the region. The epidemic has resulted in sub-Saharan Africa having nearly 70 percent of the world's HIV-positive cases, with women and children being disproportionately affected. HIV/AIDS is also the leading cause of death among African American women aged 24 to 35, and it has been characterized as a disease of poverty, impacting individuals with limited access to health care the most.
In the context of marriage, polygamy is a tradition in parts of Central Africa, and the practice can contribute to the spread of HIV, as men may have multiple spouses. With the prevalence of the virus being so high in certain African countries, HIV/AIDS has effectively reshaped marital landscapes, contributing to a societal crisis. The magnitude of this challenge highlights the need for ongoing research and interventions, as well as support for those living with HIV/AIDS in the region.