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01/12/2010
Upward Trend In AIDS Infections
AIDS and related sexually transmitted infections continue to increase in Northern Ireland.
Following a similar trend to that seen elsewhere in the UK and other parts of Europe - the annual number of 'new episodes' of HIV has generally increased since 2001 with the highest ever annual total - of 92 - occurring in 2008.
However, NI still has relatively low numbers of episodes compared with other areas of the UK, but sex between men and sex between men and women is now the most significant routes of infection - rather than via homosexual relations.
The news came as the Stormont Health Minister and the Chief Medical Officer added their support to World Aids Day today.
Commenting, the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Michael McBride (pictured) said: "Today is an opportunity to reinforce the importance of HIV prevention. The numbers of those living with HIV in Northern Ireland has increased to around 400.
"But the reality of HIV impacts on individuals and communities. HIV therapies are complex and extremely demanding on the patient with long-term clinical treatment, care and social support. Living with HIV and facing negative and discriminatory experiences can have an incredibly detrimental impact on a person's emotional well being and general quality of life.
"We have a responsibility to care and support those affected; and to support action to protect the sexual health of the population in line with the Sexual Health Promotion Strategy and Action Plan."
Acknowledging the importance of World Aids Day, in raising awareness of AIDs and HIV, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: "This annual event helps to improve awareness about AIDS, prevent HIV transmission and tackle prejudice.
"Stigma related to HIV is a considerable challenge as it can have an adverse impact on people accessing HIV prevention, treatment and care services.
"I am committed to ensuring accessibility to services and that the best possible care and drugs are available to those living here with HIV," he said.
The Minister continued: "My Department's Sexual Health Promotion Strategy recognises the need for accurate information and education about sexual health including HIV and is underpinned by the values of respect and responsibility.
"Risk-taking behaviours such as alcohol and drug use can bring about reduced personal control which can lead to harmful actions.
"There is still a need to curb HIV infection, so we must continue to push health promotion messages," he continued.
(BMcC/KMcA)
Following a similar trend to that seen elsewhere in the UK and other parts of Europe - the annual number of 'new episodes' of HIV has generally increased since 2001 with the highest ever annual total - of 92 - occurring in 2008.
However, NI still has relatively low numbers of episodes compared with other areas of the UK, but sex between men and sex between men and women is now the most significant routes of infection - rather than via homosexual relations.
The news came as the Stormont Health Minister and the Chief Medical Officer added their support to World Aids Day today.
Commenting, the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Michael McBride (pictured) said: "Today is an opportunity to reinforce the importance of HIV prevention. The numbers of those living with HIV in Northern Ireland has increased to around 400.
"But the reality of HIV impacts on individuals and communities. HIV therapies are complex and extremely demanding on the patient with long-term clinical treatment, care and social support. Living with HIV and facing negative and discriminatory experiences can have an incredibly detrimental impact on a person's emotional well being and general quality of life.
"We have a responsibility to care and support those affected; and to support action to protect the sexual health of the population in line with the Sexual Health Promotion Strategy and Action Plan."
Acknowledging the importance of World Aids Day, in raising awareness of AIDs and HIV, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: "This annual event helps to improve awareness about AIDS, prevent HIV transmission and tackle prejudice.
"Stigma related to HIV is a considerable challenge as it can have an adverse impact on people accessing HIV prevention, treatment and care services.
"I am committed to ensuring accessibility to services and that the best possible care and drugs are available to those living here with HIV," he said.
The Minister continued: "My Department's Sexual Health Promotion Strategy recognises the need for accurate information and education about sexual health including HIV and is underpinned by the values of respect and responsibility.
"Risk-taking behaviours such as alcohol and drug use can bring about reduced personal control which can lead to harmful actions.
"There is still a need to curb HIV infection, so we must continue to push health promotion messages," he continued.
(BMcC/KMcA)
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