The publication of new HIV data underlines the urgent need for a comprehensive and robust Sexual Health Strategy, backed by experts
01 October 2024
Today, the UK Health Security Agency's (UKHSA) published its latest annual HIV data for England. The report details a stark increase in HIV diagnoses in England, with a total of 6,008 diagnoses in 2023, marking an increase of 51% from 2022.
Taking into account today’s figures, the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) reiterates that, despite progress made in recent years regarding HIV prevention and treatment, significant challenges remain and there must be no room for complacency in the fight against HIV.
Responding to the annual HIV data publication, Professor Matt Phillips, BASHH President, commented:
“The cumulative impact of years of underfunding and reduced prioritisation of sexual health has taken a visible toll on progress towards eliminating HIV and improving HIV and sexual health outcomes more broadly. We now face a pivotal moment: we must act urgently to ensure that sexual health is treated as a key component of the nation’s overall health and wellbeing. Without such action, the goal of reaching zero new HIV transmissions in the UK by 2030 risks slipping from our grasp.
The latest data highlights significant and ongoing disparities in HIV across different demographics and communities. Stigma and discrimination related to HIV remain widespread, underscoring the need to address harmful rhetoric head-on and ensure that everyone living with HIV has access to high quality care.
The GUM workforce has the tools, knowledge, and capability to tackle these persistent inequalities and end new HIV cases, but this effort requires sustained investment, comprehensive access to services, and the commitment of political leaders. Our collective goal must be underpinned by a new sexual health strategy, which can support the HIV Action Plan and that is backed by experts, helping to ensure that we can safeguard the health of our communities now and into the future.
Now is the time to get back on track, protect the health of the nation, and make the goal of zero new cases of HIV a reality.”
The full UKHSA data publication can be found here.