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By 2015, the number of new HIV infections will decrease by 25%
Last reviewed: 20.11.2021
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The United States set a goal to reduce by 25 percent the number of new HIV infections by 2015. Speaking at the International AIDS Conference, a high-ranking official from the US Ministry of Health said that this goal is part of the national strategy for the prevention of the disease, and advised other countries to develop similar strategies.
Deputy Minister of Health Howard Koch told delegates from around the world that national strategies are critical to preventing the spread of AIDS and reducing the incidence of disease:
"National strategies outline the conceptual framework for the fight against AIDS. These strategies are developed taking into account the epidemiological situation in the country, morbidity indicators and current trends. They also demonstrate the importance of the country's leadership in the development of AIDS control programs and the need to maximize the effectiveness of these programs. "
He said that in the next three years the incidence of AIDS in the United States should be reduced by 25 percent, both by treating those who have already become carriers of HIV, and through prevention. In addition, it is necessary to raise public awareness. It is estimated that one in five HIV carriers do not know that they are infected.
Koch gave an example of a program implemented in Washington by the Department of Vehicle Registration:
"Customers waiting for their turn to get a driver's license or other services can undergo a free HIV test."
According to Koch, 1.1 million Americans are infected with AIDS, and annually about 50,000 people are infected with the virus. He said that the most widespread disease is common among homosexuals belonging to African American and Hispanic populations, African American women and drug addicts, especially among urban residents.
The conference, which will last until Friday, is attended by more than 23,000 scientists, activists and other interested parties.