Number of New HIV Cases in Minnesota Increased 11% Between 2003, 2004, State Health Department Report Says
The number of new HIV cases in Minnesota increased 11% in 2004, compared with the number of cases reported in 2003, according to a state Department of Health report released on Friday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. The department recorded 307 new HIV cases last year, more than half of which were among white men and about 38% of which were among African Americans and African-born residents. In addition, the number of new AIDS cases reported last year increased, with the health department recording 196 newly diagnosed cases. Although the number of new HIV cases in Minnesota has remained relatively stable over the past five years, the health department recorded a 13% drop in the number of new HIV cases recorded between 2002 and 2003, the Pioneer Press reports. However, Tracy Sides, a state HIV/AIDS epidemiologist, said the drop was "an unusual blip" and that the 2004 numbers are "more in line" with the health department's expectations, according to the Pioneer Press. Lorraine Teel, executive director of the Minnesota AIDS Project, said that the state needs to "rededicate its time and money" to HIV/AIDS prevention efforts and "recognize new groups that are at risk," according to the Pioneer Press. "We have at our disposal proven methods for preventing HIV infection and reducing transmission," Teel said, adding, "But HIV is a moving target." About 5,000 HIV-positive people live in Minnesota, and 58 people died in the state of HIV/AIDS-related illnesses in 2004 (Olson, St. Paul Pioneer Press, 4/16).
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