More people have HIV but we know less about it

The National Aid's Trust (NAT) has launched a new website - www.hivaware.org.uk -  to provide clear, easy to read and up to date information about HIV for the general public.

NAT say that despite more people living with HIV in the UK than ever before, our knowledge about the disease is declining. According to Ipsos MORI research one in five of UK adults do not know that HIV is transmitted through sex without a condom between a man and a woman. NAT say knowledge of this fact has fallen by 11% in the last decade.

In addition, one in ten people incorrectly believe HIV can be transmitted through routes such as kissing (9%) and spitting (10%). These figures have doubled since 2007 (from 4% and 5% respectively).

In the UK more than 90,000 people are living with HIV and a quarter of these people do not know they have it. There are 6,000-7,000 new HIV diagnoses each year.

Knowledge reduces stigma

Deborah Jack, chief executive of NAT, said: 'It is extremely important for people to have access to current and trustworthy information so they know how to protect themselves and others from HIV infection. We also know there is a link between being aware of the facts and the attitude you hold towards people living with HIV, so this is also a way of breaking down stigma and prejudice'

The website, set up with NAT’s partner in the project, Durex. also includes downloadable materials providing key facts on HIV which healthcare professionals can print out and hand to clients.

• Visit the website