title: The emerging HIV/AIDS epidemic in Georgia.
abstract: The first case of HIV in Georgia was diagnosed in 1989. Through December 2002, a total of 375 cases of HIV infection were reported. However, the World Health Organization estimates that the true number of infections may be closer to 1700. In all, 70% of reported cases are among injection drug users. Based on the UNAIDS classification, Georgia is a 'low-level HIV country' with an HIV prevalence of less than 1% in all groups, including drug users. However, there is a high prevalence of hepatitis B and C, suggesting a significant risk for the spread of HIV. Georgia, a newly independent republic, is experiencing an increase in injection drug use, a rise in sexually transmitted infections and commercial sex trade that create a fertile soil for the potential rapid spread of HIV. However, it is also a country with a unique window of opportunity for limiting the spread of HIV.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, 69 Jesse Hill Jr Dr, Atlanta, GA, USA.
authors.forename: Alexander
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Tkeshelashvili-Kessler
authors.forename: Carlos
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: del Rio
authors.forename: Kenrad
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Nelson
authors.forename: Tergiz
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Tsertsvadze
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D021821:Communicable Diseases, Emerging / Q000453:epidemiology*; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D005260:Female; D005846:Georgia (Republic) / Q000453:epidemiology; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors; D011477:Sex Work; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology; D015819:Substance Abuse, Intravenous / Q000150:complications