EPIDEMIOLOGY OF AIDS OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1988. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF AIDS OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES

AIDS, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, and other Manifestations of HIV Infection. Wormser GP et al, eds. Park Ridge, NJ, Noyes Publications, p. 96-107, 1987.. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE ICDB/88646997
Ancelle RA; Brunet JB; WHO Collaborating Center on AIDS, Paris, France

Abstract: Five yr after the first description of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in the United States, cases have been reported in about 60 countries on five continents. At present, the epidemiology of AIDS worldwide is difficult to assess due to large gaps in available information and because each country uses a different surveillance system to collect data. AIDS cases reported in 23 European countries as of December 31, 1985 ranged from 0 (USSR) to 573 (France). Many countries are now facing an emerging epidemic. Surveillance data show significant regional epidemiologic differences in the importance of specific risk groups. Heterosexual populations are at greatest risk in central Africa and Haiti, whereas male homosexuals predominate in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Europe, and the United States. Considerable variation in the distribution of risk groups is noted within countries in Europe. In northern European countries, most cases have been observed among homosexuals, whereas in the southern countries, such as Italy and Spain, cases have occurred mainly among iv drug abusers. The proportion of patients from outside the identified risk groups is highest in Belgium and France, where many patients have originated in Africa, reflecting historical links between Africa and the two countries. These observations underline the continued importance of accurate surveillance. Only through such data can an improved understanding of the spread of the disease be obtained, and this is vital to effective implementation of specific public health preventive measures. (37 Refs)

Keywords: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*MORTALITY/TRANSMISSION Comparative Study *Cross-Cultural Comparison Cross-Sectional Studies Human Risk Factors MONOGRAPH

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