Heterosexual transmission of HIV-1
Matsuda, J.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine 51 Suppl: 487-491
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0047-1852 PMID: 8271424 Document Number: 339364
Heterosexual transmission of HIV-1 is predicted to become a major problem along with its transmission by injecting drug users (IDUs). Table 1 of this article shows the current status of AIDS patients in the US and future projections; table 2 shows the current status of HIV-infected individuals in Japan; and table 3 shows the current status of AIDS patients in Japan. Chart 1 shows changes in the number of HIV-infected individuals in Japan from 1987 to 1992. According to tables 2 and 3, individuals infected with HIV-1 via heterosexual transmission (468) outnumber those infected via homosexual transmission (159), although the reverse is true of AIDS patients. Of 468 people infected with HIV-1, 304 (65%) are women. Of the 304 women, only 59 are Japanese and the rest are foreigners, mostly from Southeast Asia. Among the Japanese, the male/female ratio of those infected with HIV-1 is 2.1:1. Furthermore, HIV-1 found in Japan is of subtype A, originated from Southeast Asia, which is sexually transmitted. In sexual viral transmission, major means of infection are semen, vaginal secretion, and penile secretion before ejaculation. Intestinal membranes and scarred vaginal membranes are especially susceptible to infections. Abstinence or the use of condoms along with spermicides are highly recommended.