A large-scale survey of Africans in England shows that targeted human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention services are required to improve people’s confidence and skills, in order for them to avoid catching HIV or passing it on.
The survey findings provide public health planners with clear information about where spending should be prioritised, according to the report. While the vast majority of people taking part in the survey had a clear understanding of how HIV is transmitted, one in five had no idea that effective treatment for HIV exists, and more than a third did not know these treatments work better the earlier they are instigated. People’s experiences of HIV in their countries of origin may influence their awareness of HIV and its treatment.
About half a million Africans live in the UK, according to the 2001 Census, and the Health Protection Agency estimates that about 25,000 (one in 20) are infected with HIV, whether they know it or not.
www.sigmaresearch.org.uk/ go.php/reports