AIDS in El Salvador

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The initial diagnosis of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in El Salvador occurred in October 1985.
• The epidemic has predominantly affected men, with 81% of cases at Rosales Hospital being male.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the epidemiology of AIDS and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection in El Salvador.
• To identify risk factors and demographic trends associated with HIV/AIDS in the region.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case review of patients diagnosed with AIDS at Rosales Hospital.
• Analysis of national HIV seropositivity data and blood donor screening results up to September 1991.

Main Results:

• 110 AIDS cases were reported at Rosales Hospital, with 54% reporting heterosexual contact and 61% citing multiple sexual partners.
• Travel history revealed significant links to the United States (33%) and Honduras (12%).
• National HIV seropositivity reached 504 cases by September 1991, with a notable increase in blood donor seropositivity from 0% in 1988 to 0.265% in 1991.

Conclusions:

• HIV/AIDS transmission in El Salvador is associated with heterosexual contact, multiple partners, and travel, particularly to the US.
• The rising seropositivity rates, including among blood donors, indicate a growing public health concern.
• Further surveillance and targeted interventions are crucial to control the spread of HIV/AIDS in El Salvador.