Health

Two studies presented at the 17th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) found that people recently diagnosed with HIV, and some of those with high CD4 counts when they begin treatment, are likely to live as long, or nearly as long, as those without HIV. The findings, reported on aidsmap, highlight the importance of regular testing for HIV. If someone has HIV, early diagnosis means they can begin treatment sooner, making it more likely they’ll live longer and enjoy better health.

The first study, from the Dutch ATHENA Cohort, measured the death rate of 4,612 patients in the Netherlands newly diagnosed between 1998 and 2007 over, on average, 3.3 years. The study excluded those who had to start antiretroviral therapy (ART) less than six months after diagnosis or who had an AIDS-defining illness in the first six months. It found that:

Those diagnosed at the age of 25 have a life expectancy of 52.7 years (they would live until, on average, the age of 77.7) – just five months less than those without HIV. Men diagnosed at the age of 55 would live 1.3 years less and women 1.5 years less.

Read more: New Research On Importance of Earlier Diagnosis of HIV

Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is teaming up with Soho-based sexual health centre 56 Dean Street to launch a new workshop for gay men who have recently been diagnosed with HIV. The course, which launches on Tuesday 23 February, is free of charge and will run every Tuesday for six weeks.

The newly diagnosed gay mens group aims to help gay men who have recently received a positive HIV diagnosis to cope with the range of issues they may experience. The centre at 56 Dean Street provides a friendly, safe environment in which course members can meet others who are going through the same situation, and be supported in coming to terms with their diagnosis.

Gordon Mundie, Groupwork Co-ordinator at Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “Receiving an HIV diagnosis is a life-changing and often scary experience, so it’s no surprise many men don’t know where to turn for help. One of the best ways to cope is by meeting men who are in the same boat as you, and talking through issues like medication, disclosure, and sex and relationships. We’re delighted that, for the first time, we can deliver the workshops from 56 Dean Street. The centre has a great location right in the heart of London’s gay village, and we hope this will encourage more men who need support to sign up.”

Read more: Terrence Higgins Trust launches course support gay men diagnosed with HIV

Don’t let Cupid’s arrows make your eyes water, with new guide to passionate safer sex from THT.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is publishing an online guide with top tips on how to use condoms and protect your sexual health without killing the romantic mood.

A recent study found 43% of men didn’t always use a condom when having sex with a new partner. Some argue that safer sex and romance just don’t mix, with worries that condoms are uncomfortable, ruin the sensation, or even interrupt those tried and tested seduction techniques.

THT’s new guide (www.tht.org.uk/romance) aims to challenge some of these old-fashioned attitudes, with easy-to-follow advice on how to protect yourself and your partner from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) without spoiling the intimacy. Tips for men include exploring the different sizes available to find the most comfortable fit, and investing some time in a ‘dress rehearsal’ to make sure you can tackle your tackle with total confidence, plus a special hands-free technique for getting your partner ready for action.

Read more: Do You Want Passionate Safer Sex?

Last year The National Blood Service received 2.1 million donations from about 1.6 million donors. Although that sounds a lot, it reflects only 4% of the population, giving two or three times a year.

The NHS needs a constant supply of 7,000 units of blood each day for hospitals across the UK, this equates to at least 2.5 million donations every year, leading to a deficit of 400,000 units of blood each year.

Members of the free gay dating website ManCentral.com were asked if they would donate blood if they were not restricted by the policies of the National Blood Service. An overwhelming 77% of respondents said they would donate blood if they were permitted to do so. Of the 23% who said no, various reasons were provided such as a fear of needles, previous blood transfusions or other family medical conditions such as CJD.

Read more: 3 out of 4 Gay Men Would Donate Blood If ‘Allowed’

Most gay men use condoms most of the time. However, when having sex with men they believe to have the same HIV status as them, some men don’t. Many gay men become infected with HIV in this way, which is why GMFA, the gay men’s health charity, is launching its new booklet, “Let’s Talk Sex”. The booklet provides information and advice on keeping the sex you have safe and fun, whether it is with casual partners, sex buddies or a long-term boyfriend.

 ‘Let’s Talk Sex’ is aimed at both HIV-negative and HIV-positive gay men. It includes information and advice on avoiding risks with casual partners and sex buddies, coming up with a plan to stay safe in relationships and talking openly about safer sex with your partners.

Matthew Hodson, Head of Programmes at GMFA, says: “There is still no cure for HIV. Sex without condoms with someone because you think they have the same HIV status as you may seem safe, but this is how most gay men become infected. It’s easy to make the wrong assumption about a guy you meet in a bar, sauna or online - and it’s just as easy to put you and your partner at risk if you are in a monogamous relationship. ‘Let’s Talk Sex’ gives practical advice and information for all gay men, whether they are positive or negative, in a relationship or having casual sex.”

Read more: Let's Talk Sex!