Public Health England have today released new data which shows encouraging statistics regarding new HIV diagnoses in the UK, particularly among gay and bisexual men.
New diagnoses have dropped by 31% in the last few years, with the steepest decline among men in London.
It also shows a 17% decrease in new HIV diagnoses across the UK in 2017, and a drop of more than a quarter (28%) over the last two years.
While this is great news, experts are anxious to continue putting the emphasis on getting tested. The data also shows that 42% of new diagnoses were diagnosed late; making successful treatment more difficult. We must also continue to learn, get tested, and take the necessary steps if we are to stop HIV altogether.
“Today’s drop in new HIV diagnoses among some communities in the UK clearly shows we have the tools to end the HIV epidemic in this country,” says Ian Green, Chief Executive of the Terrence Higgins Trust.
“But, rather than patting ourselves on the back, we need to redouble our efforts, work harder and get to zero HIV transmissions.”
“The dramatic drop in HIV diagnoses, particularly among gay and bisexual men, shows the impact of more HIV testing and faster access to treatment,” says HIV activist Matthew Hodson.
“When people are treated and become undetectable they can’t pass the virus on to their sexual partners. The purpose of HIV treatment is to save lives and prevent illness. A side effect of HIV treatment, and it’s a terrific one, is that it prevents new infections.”
