HIV in women in Aotearoa New Zealand: 25 years of surveillance data.

Abstract

We describe the characteristics of women diagnosed with HIV and AIDS in Aotearoa New Zealand over the last 25 years, and of women living with HIV in New Zealand in order to guide the response for HIV prevention and care. Data on women diagnosed with HIV and AIDS in New Zealand (1996-2020) were collected through routine surveillance case reports from healthcare providers. CD4 cell count <350 cells/mm³ was considered a late diagnosis. Women living with HIV by 31 December 2020 included those first diagnosed in New Zealand and those previously diagnosed overseas. A total of 634 women have been diagnosed with HIV (18% of all diagnoses in this time): most cases were acquired through heterosexual contact (82%). Twenty-eight percent (n=180/634) acquired HIV in New Zealand, of whom 43% were diagnosed late. AIDS was diagnosed in 128 women (72% within three months of HIV diagnosis). An estimated 570 women (77% aged >40 years) were living with diagnosed HIV at the end of 2020. The number of women diagnosed with HIV each year in New Zealand has remained steady over recent years. More timely testing and diagnosis is essential to ensure women with HIV have access to appropriate treatment and support.