Factors influencing the development of the HIV pandemic
Brinchmann, J.E.
Tidsskrift for den Norske Laegeforening Tidsskrift for Praktisk Medicin Ny Raekke 112(17): 2231-2234
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-2001 PMID: 1523666 Document Number: 404260
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is transmitted by unprotected sexual intercourse, via infected blood or blood products, or perinatally from mother to infant. A number of factors determine the risk of transmission in any of these situations. The general risk of infection in a society will also depend on the duration of the incubation period from infection to onset of HIV-related disease and death. This article discusses some of the factors which determine the risk of transmission, the general risk of infection in a society and the individual decision to engage in high-risk activities.