[HIV and AIDS in Poland in 2008].

In 2008 in total 808 newly detected HIV cases were registered in Poland (2,12 per 100,000 population), constituting 12.5% increase comparing to 2007 and 27.8% increase comparing to median number in 2001 - 2006. The total number of incident AIDS cases diagnosed in 2008 and registered up to the end of 2009 was 159 (incidence 0.42 per 100,000 population). There were 67 death of AIDS patients in 2008 registered up to the end of 2009. Among the newly diagnosed HIV cases as compared to 2007 an increase of the share of infections acquired through homosexual contact between men (up to 6.06% of all cases and 31% of cases with known transmission route) and heterosexual contact were observed, which most likely reflects significant changes in HIV epidemiology in Poland where the epidemic was for many years injection driven. Across the country HIV infection is the most frequently detected among young people (30 - 39 years) and among males (74%). In comparison to the year 2007, the number of reports without information about the possible route of transmission increased. Furthermore, the percentage of late presenters, as defined by time between HIV and AIDS diagnoses of less than 3 months, is still growing, suggesting low awareness of risk or suboptimal availability of diagnostic tests. The largest group among patients with AIDS are also males and people aged 30 to 39 years. Most of them were probably infected through injecting drugs. Despite the successful implementation of antiretroviral treatment program a significant increase of AIDS incidence was noted. Among incident AIDS cases in 2008, a small percentage had been treated before developing AIDS.