HIV infections in Singapore decrease by 14% compared to the previous year, according to the Ministry of Health.
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Health (MOH) reported on Thursday (Dec 1) that a total of 171 new human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases were recorded among Singapore citizens and permanent residents from January to October this year. This figure represents a 14% decrease compared to the same period last year.
In 2021, 250 new HIV cases were reported, down from 261 in 2020. An analysis of 102 reported cases between January and June 2022 revealed that 93% of those affected were male, and 59% were diagnosed at a late stage of infection—1% lower than in the previous year.
Sexual intercourse remains the primary mode of HIV transmission, accounting for 91% of the cases. Among these, men who have sex with men comprised 52% of the infections, including 3% who engage in bisexual activities. Men who have sex with women accounted for 39% of the reported cases.
Of the newly diagnosed, 55% were detected through HIV tests conducted during medical care, typically at a late stage of infection. Another 17% were identified through routine programmatic screenings, while 15% resulted from self-initiated HIV tests. A higher percentage of men who have sex with men (23%) had their infections identified through self-initiated screenings, compared to 8% among heterosexual individuals. The total number of HIV-positive Singapore residents stood at 9,231 as of June 2022.
Preventing HIV Infection
In a Facebook post marking World AIDS Day, Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung emphasized the need to continue addressing other diseases, including HIV and AIDS, alongside the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that advancements in medicine have transformed HIV from a terminal disease into a manageable condition similar to chronic diseases.
“People living with HIV can now be diagnosed and treated earlier, allowing them to lead healthy and productive lives,” said Mr. Ong. This progress is attributed to the combined efforts of scientists, healthcare professionals, and community organizations.
MOH advises that the most effective way to prevent HIV infection is to maintain fidelity within partnerships and avoid casual sex or interactions with sex workers. Individuals engaged in high-risk behaviors, such as having multiple sexual partners, are encouraged to use condoms consistently and correctly during all sexual encounters.
The use of preventive measures like HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is also recommended as part of a comprehensive strategy for HIV prevention. PrEP involves taking HIV preventive medication daily and is effective in reducing the risk of infection.
MOH emphasizes that regular HIV testing is essential for knowing one’s HIV status, as early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve health outcomes. Individuals at risk are encouraged to undergo regular HIV testing every three to six months.
“A person living with HIV can protect their sexual partner from infection if they are on regular treatment and maintain an undetectable viral load,” the ministry added. “With timely and effective treatment, individuals living with HIV can lead lives no different from others.”
