New York City reported a 7.6% increase in new HIV diagnoses in 2023, with 1,686 cases diagnosed, according to the city health department’s latest annual report. However, experts say this trend may be due to increased testing rather than an actual rise in the virus.
The city is taking steps to address the disparity, with officials emphasizing the need for targeted outreach and education on HIV prevention and care. While medicine has improved HIV treatment, unequal access to services remains a concern. The report highlights areas of high incidence, primarily low-income communities of color, and notes that despite advances in treatment, disparities persist.
The city is working to address these gaps, with efforts focused on increasing PrEP use among certain populations. However, state data shows progress slowing for Black New Yorkers taking the medication. Experts call for continued investment in citywide programs that have proven effective.
This increase comes as New York State nears its deadline to achieve a series of metrics aligned with its “Ending the Epidemic” initiative. The state still has work to do, aiming to reduce new HIV diagnoses statewide to 1,515 or fewer by 2024.
Source: https://gothamist.com/news/more-nyers-are-getting-diagnosed-with-hiv-health-officials-say-its-because-of-better-testing