Changes in the HIV Epidemic in Lower Silesia, Poland, Between 2010 and 2020: The Characteristics of the Key Populations

• Published in: Viruses 2024-09, Vol.16 (9), p.1445
• Main Authors: Kozieł, Aleksandra, Cieślik, Aleksandra, Janek, Łucja, Szymczak, Aleksandra, Domański, Igor, Knysz, Brygida, Szetela, Bartosz
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Acquired immune deficiency syndrome; Adolescent; Adult; AIDS; Analysis; Antibodies; CD4 antigen; CD4 Lymphocyte Count; Chi-square test; Drug use; Epidemics; Female; Health aspects; Hepatitis C; Heterosexuality - statistics & numerical data; HIV; HIV (Viruses); HIV epidemic; HIV Infections - epidemiology; HIV patients; Homosexuality, Male - statistics & numerical data; Human immunodeficiency virus; Humans; Infection; Infections; key populations; Lymphocytes; Lymphocytes T; Male; Medical records; Middle Aged; Patients; Poland; Poland - epidemiology; Population studies; Public health; Retrospective Studies; Statistical analysis; Statistical significance; Syphilis; T cells; Womens health; Young Adult
• ISSN: 1999-4915; 1999-4915
• DOI: 10.3390/v16091445

The HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) epidemic remains a significant public health issue, requiring ongoing access to preventive methods. This study aimed to analyze the evolution of the HIV epidemic in Lower Silesia from 2010 to 2020, focusing on the key populations. A retrospective analysis of the medical records from newly diagnosed HIV patients at a major HIV clinic in Wroclaw was conducted, examining demographic data, infection routes, and laboratory results. An 84% increase in newly diagnosed HIV cases was observed over the decade, with the most common route of infection being sex between men (70% among those with a known infection route). These patients were generally in better clinical condition compared to their heterosexual counterparts, as indicated by a higher median CD4+ T cell count (465/μL vs. 250/μL). The changes in clinical status and infection routes were statistically significant. The HIV epidemic in Lower Silesia has shifted, with a notable rise in new infections among men who have sex with men. Heterosexual patients were often diagnosed at more advanced stages. Prevention strategies should adapt to these changing trends, with education and testing accessibility remaining priorities nationwide.