Objective
To determine risk factors and rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission in serologically discordant couples receiving regular safe sex counselling.
Sexual transmission is the main mode of transmission of HIV throughout the world. Heterosexual transmission of HIV has been widely documented in Africa and the Caribbean Islands where this route of transmission predominates. Frequency of cases having acquired HIV by heterosexual contact is increasing in Europe and infected partners of persons at risk are now seen more frequently in hospital and clinic consultations.
A multicentre study of the heterosexual transmission of HIV was set up in 1987 to determine the rates of transmission to sexual partners, the sexual behaviours at risk and effectiveness of preventive measures.
Inclusion of couples ended in March 1991, leading to a total of 563 couples included. Since results based on prospective data are more reliable than results based on data recorded retrospectively, a prospective follow-up of serologically discordant couples was planned. Furthermore, the follow-up of couples regularly counselled about risks of HIV transmission unables us to evaluate the efficacy of counselling and condom use. With a minimum follow-up of 12 months for couples last included (March 1991), the prospective phase continued until June 1992.
Between March 1991 and December 1992, the work plan of the concerted action included:
- Analysis (and publication) of data at inclusion for the 563 couples.
- Active follow-up of discordant couples, with a specific investigation during the 1st semester of 1992 to obtain data from couples 'lost to follow-up'.
- Analysis of prospective data.
- Coordination of the European working group for the development and implementation of new research projects regarding AIDS among heterosexuals.
Fields of science
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
CON - Coordination of research actionsCoordinator
94410 Saint-Maurice
France