[Current epidemiological situation of HIV/AIDS in Latin America: analysis of differences among countries]

Abstract

Background: There is a great regional heterogeneity in the prevalence of HIV/ AIDS.

Aim: To analyze the current situation of HIV/AIDS in Latin America by means of a comparative analysis among countries.

Material and methods: In a descriptive study (document analysis), epidemiological data about HIV/AIDS in Latin America as well as population data were used. Prevalence indexes and the distribution of HIV/AIDS cases were compared according to gender, age and transmission mode.

Results: Dominican Republic, Panama, El Salvador and Honduras are the countries with the highest prevalence indexes. Colombia is in the first position in percentage of young men with HIV/AIDS and it is in the second position in percentage of children. Costa Rica is the second country for percentage of young men and male adults infected with HIV/AIDS. Paraguay is in the second place for children with HIV/AIDS and it is the third country in young men living with HIV/AIDS. Dominican Republic is in the first position in the percentage of young and adult females living with HIV/AIDS. The main transmission mode in all Latin American countries is sexual intercourse (heterosexual and homo/bisexual).

Conclusions: Latin America is a heterogeneous region in HIV/AIDS which should be considered in the development and establishment of prevention strategies.