Citation
Torrone, Elizabeth Ann; Thomas, James C.; Leone, Peter A.; & Hightow-Weidman, Lisa B. (2007). Late Diagnosis of HIV in Young Men in North Carolina. Sexually Transmitted Diseases, 34(11), 846-848.Abstract
DIAGNOSIS OF HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY virus (HIV) before symptomatic disease and subsequent access to care has health benefits for the infected individual, as well as a larger public health impact. Antiretroviral treatment and prophylactic treatment for opportunistic infections during asymptomatic infection delay progression to symptomatic HIV disease1 and resulting lower viral loads may decrease transmission efficiency.2 Persons who are aware of their infection reduce high-risk sexual behaviors3,4 and for persons in care, contact with providers offers additional opportunities for preventing further transmission.5 Early diagnosis and entry into care can have a substantial economic impact as direct care costs are higher for persons presenting with a CD4 count under 200 cells/mL.6 Many studies have focused on early entry into care after an HIV diagnosis;7–15 however, identification of HIV infection must precede care and few have examined patients in the United States who have a delayed diagnosis of HIV.7,16,17,21 We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using North Carolina (NC) state surveillance records of all newly reported cases of HIV in men aged 18–30 between 2000 and 2004. Analysis was conducted on data abstracted from the NC Partner Counseling and Referral Services (PCRS) surveillance database which documents confidential postdiagnosis interviews, as well as information gathered from patient's providers.18,19 These data were abstracted as part of an ongoing investigation of HIV infection in young men, prompted by an outbreak in 2002.URL
http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/OLQ.0b013e31809505f7Reference Type
Journal ArticleYear Published
2007Journal Title
Sexually Transmitted DiseasesAuthor(s)
Torrone, Elizabeth AnnThomas, James C.
Leone, Peter A.
Hightow-Weidman, Lisa B.