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HIV infection in Varanasi.
1Department of Microbiology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India.
The Journal of Communicable Diseases
|May 16, 2000
Summary
HIV prevalence in northern India was 2.6%, with higher rates in high-risk groups and males. A significant increase in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevalence was noted between 1994 and 1997.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a significant global health concern.
- Understanding regional prevalence and risk factors is crucial for targeted interventions.
- Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India, has been identified as an area requiring focused attention for HIV control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the seroprevalence of HIV antibodies in serum samples from northern India.
- To analyze the prevalence of HIV in different risk groups (high vs. low risk).
- To identify demographic and geographic factors associated with HIV seropositivity.
Main Methods:
- Screening of 6038 serum samples using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).
- Confirmation of reactive samples by Western Blot technique.
- Analysis of seropositivity rates, male-to-female ratio, and age distribution.
Main Results:
- Overall HIV seropositivity was 2.6% (154 individuals).
- Prevalence was significantly higher in high-risk groups (68/1000) compared to low-risk populations (2.8/1000).
- A threefold increase in prevalence was observed from 1994 (1.5%) to 1997 (5.0%); 50% of seropositives were in their third decade; 90% were from eastern Uttar Pradesh, with links to Mumbai.
Conclusions:
- HIV prevalence in eastern northern India shows a concerning increasing trend.
- High-risk populations and younger adults (third decade) are disproportionately affected.
- Geographic links to major commercial centers like Mumbai highlight potential transmission routes.