Characteristics of HIV diagnoses in Australia, 1993-2006

Abstract

Objective: To describe recent trends in the diagnosis of HIV infection in Australia. Methods: National HIV surveillance data from 1993 to 2006 were analysed with a focus on geographic differences by HIV exposure route and late presentation (HIV within 3 months of a first AIDS-defining illness or a CD4 count of less than 200 cells μL-1). Results: In 1993-99, the number of HIV diagnoses declined by 32%, and then increased by 39% from 1999 to 2006. From 2000 onwards, rates increased significantly in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. The most frequently reported routes of HIV exposure were male to male sex (71%) and heterosexual contact (18%), and the population rate o..