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HIV myths still widespread

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HIV myths still widespread

A survey by the Terrence Higgins Trust, released on World AIDS Day (1 December), has revealed that myths and misconceptions about HIV are still widespread in the UK. 

The survey of over 2,000 adults showed that one in five Britons mistakenly think that HIV can be transmitted by kissing, while 30 per cent wrongly believe that sharing a toothbrush with someone who is HIV positive can pass on the virus.

The survey also highlighted a lack of awareness of developments in HIV treatment, with only 29 per cent of people aware that HIV patients taking effective treatment can have children without passing on the virus.

Meanwhile, only 16 per cent of respondents agreed that there was currently an HIV epidemic in the UK, when Public Health England figures suggest that there are 101,200 people in the country living with the condition.

Ian Green, chief executive of the Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “The HIV epidemic is not over in the UK – there are more people living with HIV in the UK today than ever before. We must not let complacency and misunderstanding undo decades of progress.”

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