Researchers across Canada warned of a gradual demographic shift
in the infection of HIV at the 10th annual HIV/AIDS conference
in Vancouver.
Laval University researcher Michel Alary presented this week findings on the rising numbers of heterosexuals, women, and intravenous drug users being infected by the human immunodeficiency virus, believed to cause AIDS.
Alary revealed between 1979 to 1992, the rate of infection among women jumped from 6.1 per cent of all those infected to 10 per cent. The rate among intravenous drug users and general transmission among heterosexuals grew at a more alarming rate in that period - from 6.4 per cent to 15.4 per cent among drug users, and from 8.6 per cent to 16.9 per cent among heterosexuals.
Meanwhile, the final report* of a long-term study has confirmed preliminary findings, previously reported in the West Ender, that young gay men are twice as likely to be infected with the HIV virus than was previously expected. The finding from the Vanguard Project, a study on HIV risk among gay youth, was revealed Tuesday at the conference.
Paul Perchal, AIDS Vancouver's director of education, urged public campaigning of safe sex beyond condom distribution. Young gay men should have access to supports and services, and the fight against homophobia - which keeps gay youth from learning about safer sex practices - should be stepped up, he said.
For more information, contact:
Bonnie Devlin
Vanguard Project Coordinator
608 - 1081 Burrard Street
Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
Tel: (604)806-8306
Fax: (604)806-9044