HIV Still Increasing Among Gay menIn response to the initial 2007 figures on HIV, released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA), Deborah Jack, Chief Executive of the National AIDS Trust commented:

“It is a concern that HIV diagnoses are still increasing among gay men and heterosexuals infected in the UK, and we welcome the Department of Health review of national HIV prevention programmes.”

“Alongside improved prevention we urgently need better HIV testing strategies. HIV is often not picked up early enough by health professionals and late diagnoses increase the liklihood of HIV being passed on, as well as greatly reducing the health prospects of those diagnosed.”

UK statistics for 2007 from HPA

• 6,840 new HIV diagnoses in 2007
• 38% were among gay men
• 700 new diagnoses among heterosexuals infected in the UK

Notes to the Editor:

The National AIDS Trust (NAT) is the UK's leading independent policy and campaigning voice on HIV and AIDS. It aims to prevent the spread of HIV, encourage early diagnosis, ensure people living with HIV have access to treatment and care, and eradicate HIV-related stigma and discrimination.