The government's national HIV and AIDS strategy will need to tackle rising levels of sexually transmitted infections in young gay men and 'micro-epidemics' among heterosexuals, according to the National AIDS Trust.

In a report published this week, the trust expresses 'grave concerns' about an increase in needle-sharing among drug addicts and high-risk sex, coupled with a lack of awareness of the risks of HIV among young people.

Figures released by the Public Health Laboratory Service last week show a 30 per cent rise in the number of people with HIV in Britain in three years, to about 30,000 people. Of these, 10,000 are thought to be unaware of their status. The increase in high-risk behaviour is attributed in part to people thinking combination drug treatments offer a cure.

The government is set to issue a consultation document on a new HIV and AIDS strategy in the spring. The new strategy is due next autumn.

HIV at the Crossroads .

The National Aids Trust, 0171-814 6767. Free.

Topics