The ever-evolving epidemiologic concepts of human immunodeficiency virus infections.
Human immunodeficiency virus infection has now reached epidemic proportions in both industrialized and nonindustrialized countries. Two preventive measures remain of questionable benefit: mandatory testing and partner notification. Sexually transmitted diseases and cervical ectopy may be risk factors for heterosexual transmission, now the most frequent mode of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus worldwide. Smokable freebase cocaine, the use of which is increasing in many cities in industrialized countries, is associated with acquisition of sexually transmitted diseases and human immunodeficiency virus infection. In addition to perinatal transmission of human immunodeficiency virus, postnatal transmission via breastfeeding has been demonstrated in association with a recent acquisition of human immunodeficiency virus by the mother. Intriguingly, in multiple pregnancies, first-born twins of human immunodeficiency virus-infected mothers could be at higher risk of infection than second-born twins. Nosocomial transmission of human immunodeficiency virus, both from infected patients to health professionals and from infected health professionals to patients, is a matter of concern and justifies preventive measures.
Van de Perre
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National AIDS Control Program, Kigali, Rwanda.
D015492:AIDS Serodiagnosis; D000328:Adult; D001942:Breast Feeding; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D016358:Contact Tracing; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission; D003663:Decision Trees; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission; D015497:HIV-1; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D015233:Models, Statistical; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D012307:Risk Factors; D012725:Sexual Behavior