Human immunodeficiency virus infection in Taiwan, 1984 to 1994

From 1984 to September 1994, a total of 9,099,734 serum samples from six population groups were tested for the antibody to human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV). Mandatory testing was carried out for blood donors, military recruits, immigrants and prisoners; other population groups were tested anonymously with consent. A total of 695 samples were seropositive and, of these HIV carriers, 142 developed acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Although the prevalence of HIV infection and AIDS has remained low, there has been a rapid increase since 1991. Of the 142 AIDS cases, 68 were in homosexuals/bisexuals, 6 were in hemophiliacs, 7 were in prisoners/intravenous drug users, 49 were in heterosexuals and for 12 cases, the risk factors were unknown. Before 1987, 69 (90.8%) of the 76 HIV-infected persons were homosexuals or hemophiliacs. Thereafter, the risk groups diversified, with the main group shifting from hemophiliacs to intravenous drug users, and the number of heterosexuals surpassing that of homosexuals. Among the 142 cases of AIDS, 135 were males and only 7 were females. Despite the short period of follow-up, 114 have died (including 3 suicides).