2023 HIV Diagnoses in England

In 2023, England saw a significant 15% increase in new HIV diagnoses, rising from 2,451 cases in 2022 to 2,810. This rise was particularly noticeable in heterosexual populations:

Increases in HIV Diagnoses

• Men exposed through sex with women saw a 36% increase, from 445 to 605 cases.
• Women exposed through sex with men experienced a 30% rise, from 602 to 780 cases.

The rise was particularly noticeable outside of London, highlighting a shift in the geographic distribution of new cases.

International Diagnosis Trends

A significant number of new diagnoses in 2023 were among individuals who had been diagnosed abroad. Specifically, 53% of individuals diagnosed in England had a prior diagnosis outside the UK, up from 38% in 2022. This trend underscores the need for:

• Ensuring continuity of care for migrants.
• Providing culturally competent healthcare services.

Late HIV Diagnoses

The number of late HIV diagnoses increased by 3%, from 896 in 2022 to 923 in 2023. Late diagnosis remains a critical concern, as individuals diagnosed late are:

• Ten times more likely to die within a year compared to those diagnosed promptly.

Treatment Outcomes

Despite the rise in new diagnoses, treatment outcomes remain positive:

• 98% of adults accessing HIV care in England were on antiretroviral therapy in 2023.
• Among those with a reported viral load, 98% achieved viral suppression, effectively eliminating the risk of sexual transmission.

These results reflect the effectiveness of current treatment protocols and the importance of early engagement in care.

Changing Demographics in HIV Care

The population accessing HIV care is aging, with 51% of individuals receiving care in 2023 being aged 50 years and over, compared to 27% in 2013. This shift underscores the need for:

• Addressing age-related comorbidities.
• Long-term management of HIV in older populations.

Widening Inequalities in HIV Diagnoses

The data indicate widening inequalities in HIV diagnoses, particularly among ethnic minority groups. For instance:

• 33% of diagnoses among men exposed through sex between men in 2023 were among ethnic minority groups (excluding white ethnic minorities).

Strategies to Address Disparities

To address these disparities, the UKHSA emphasises the need for:

• Expanding access to HIV testing, including opt-out testing in emergency departments.
• Increasing the availability and uptake of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at higher risk.
• Enhancing public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage regular testing.

Goal: Ending New HIV Transmissions by 2030

These strategies are integral to achieving the national goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030.