Two in three young people with HIV are female

Girls and young women remain far more vulnerable to HIV infection than young men, with two-thirds of the 5.5 million 15- and 24-year-olds with HIV worldwide being female, according to a new report, ‘HIV prevention with young people: The key to tackling the epidemic’, published by UNICEF UK.

The report also states that there is a record number of 77,000 people with HIV in the UK, with more than a quarter unaware of their infection, and that there were 7,734 new HIV diagnoses reported in 2007, by far the highest number of new infections in Western Europe. Leading sexual health agency Marie Stopes International (www.mariestopes.org.uk) makes the following statement:

“The particular vulnerability of women to infection is of huge concern. Couples are often only cautious about protecting themselves from unwanted pregnancy and can forget about other risks to their health. The rapid rise in the number of HIV infections in the UK is a frightening reminder of how important it is to use a barrier method in sexual relationships where either partner is unsure of their HIV status.

"It is also worrying that so many people carrying the HIV virus aren’t aware that they are infected, and may unknowingly pass the virus to their partners. Therefore, even couples in longer-term relationships should be encouraged to get tested before considering using alternative contraceptive methods to condoms.

"Although young people may have heard of HIV and AIDS, they might be unclear about how to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections when they are discovering sex. As adults, our role is to equip young people with the knowledge and resources they need.

"Parents, educators, politicians and health services need to work together if we are to prevent the spread of HIV. Parents should try to promote an open attitude towards talking about sex, to ensure their children approach them for advice if needed. Lessons on HIV and AIDS should be provided to young people to educate and raise awareness. Politicians and health services need to facilitate the provision of contraceptive supplies and sexual health services specifically tailored to young people’s needs.

"The finding that the UK has the highest number of new HIV infections in Western Europe is of great concern. We are lucky in the UK to have access to anti-retroviral drugs for the treatment of HIV infection. However, there is no cure as yet and these drugs frequently bring with them unpleasant side-effects. Men and women of all ages should not disregard the risks associated with contracting HIV – such complacency could kill.

"Marie Stopes International is committed to preventing the transmission of HIV and offers HIV testing with an expert sexual health practitioner at our centres in South London and Central London. To book an appointment please call our 24-hour advice and information line on 0845 300 8090.”

All quotes are attributable to Emily James, Marie Stopes International spokeswoman.

To access a copy of the UNICEF report please visit www.unicef.org.uk

- Ends -

For media enquiries please contact:
Emily James: 020 7034 2307
Diana Thomas: 020 7034 2317

Categories: United Kingdom; HIV / STIs

07/05/2009

Two in three young people with HIV are female

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