Yusef Azad, Director of Policy at the National AIDS Trust (NAT) said of the recent Health Protection Agency and UCL research into the driving forces behind the HIV epidemic in MSM in the UK:

"The Health Protection Agency and UCL research outlines a number of factors that are essential when it comes to HIV prevention. 

Number one is the fundamental importance of condom use - this gives further evidence that condom promotion should continue to be the backbone of HIV prevention. Secondly, the importance of HIV testing. And thirdly, the use of treatment as a way to prevent further transmission, as well as improving the health of the individual. 

In the light of these findings, NAT is reiterating its call for the NHS Commissioning Board to fund early treatment for those who want it, to prevent HIV transmission."

Notes to the editor:

This comment is in response to research by the Health Protection Agency and UCL into the driving forces behind HIV epidemic in men who have sex with men in the UK. 

For further information please contact:

Suzi Price, communications manager, NAT, 020 7814 6733, press@nat.org.uk

NAT

NAT (National AIDS Trust) is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to transforming society’s response to HIV. We provide fresh thinking, expertise and practical resources. We champion the rights of people living with HIV and campaign for change. www.nat.org.uk

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