HIV infection remains of major public health importance in Europe, with evidence of increasing sexual transmission of HIV in many western and eastern European countries. HIV data are presented in this report for three populations: Men who have sex with men (MSM): HIV prevalence studies suggest levels among specific populations of MSM in the range of 10-20% in western Europe, but very much lower in eastern Europe (<5%). An important proportion of MSM have recently engaged in high risk sexual behaviour and similar levels were observed throughout Europe. Continued health promotion is needed among MSM, both in the West, where there is increasing transmission, and the East, where there is evidence of a hidden epidemic. Pregnant women: in most countries in Europe the prevalence of HIV among pregnant women remains low. However, increasing numbers of cases of HIV infection reported amongst women of child-bearing age are reflected in an increasing HIV prevalence amongst pregnant women, most notably in Estonia (0.48% in 2002) and Ukraine (0.34% in 2004). Important pockets of higher HIV prevalence among pregnant women have been reported in major urban areas. Blood donations: in most countries in central and western Europe, the prevalence of HIV in blood donations remains low (<5/100,000 donations), but rapid increases have been reported in many countries in eastern Europe, and especially Ukraine (128/100,000 in 2004). Strategies to guarantee the safety of the blood supply (e.g. nucleic acid testing, pool of regular donors) need to be assured in these countries. (R.A.)
Année de publication
: 2006
Pages : 64 p.
