Headlines - Epidemiological Data on HIV Infection and STIs, December 2013

The number of new HIV diagnoses is estimated at 6,400 in 2012 in France; this number has remained stable since 2007. Men who have sex with men (MSM) and heterosexuals born abroad remain the two most affected groups, accounting for 42% and 38% of new cases in 2012, respectively. Heterosexuals born in France and drug users account for 17% and 1%, respectively. The rise in other STIs among MSM in recent years—particularly in the number of recent syphilis and gonococcal infections—along with the increase in risky sexual behaviors within this population, suggests that the risk of HIV transmission remains high in this group, as indicated by incidence estimates through 2010.Regional data from Poitou-Charentes on newly diagnosed HIV-positive cases and syphilis are presented in the latest Health Surveillance Bulletin (BVS No. 24-PC / December 2013).