Heterosexual transmission: a growing risk factor for HIV spread

The risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) spread by heterosexual contact is emerging as a risk factor for women in Sydney in the 1990's. As shown by this study, heterosexual exposure to the virus accounted for 40% of women in Western Sydney acquiring the disease between 1989-1991 inclusive, compared with 0% in 1982-1985 inclusive. Further public awareness of this mode of transmission and information on safe sex practices is necessary to limit the spread of the AIDS virus.