Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in China: recent trends

Abstract

Abstract We used nationally reported cases (NCAIDS/China CDC, 2016) and published literature to summarize up-to the end of 2015 epidemiologic trends in the HIV/AIDS epidemic in China. HIV-positive cases are distributed unevenly with most infections found in southwest China and the most affected population being men who have sex with men. Transmission mode of HIV infection has shifted from drug injection to sexual contact, which accounts for 95% of total reported cases. Two thirds of cases are from heterosexual transmission. Transmission pattern varies greatly throughout China. Some provinces in China reported heterosexual transmission accounted for over 90% of cases while other provinces reported homosexual transmission accounted for over 80% of cases. Patterns of heterosexually acquired HIV also vary widely, with 80% of cases attributed to commercial sex in some provinces, while in other provinces non-commercial extramarital sex accounted for over 70% of cases. Significant increase in HIV infection was observed among young students aged 15-24. China has successfully controlled blood transfusion-and injecting drug-related transmissions of HIV. Homosexual and non-commercial extramarital heterosexual transmissions have become new challenges for China’s HIV/AIDS program. Urgent adoption of the UNAIDS/WHO 90-90-90 target will help overcome these new challenges.