HIV: consensus indicators are needed for concurrency.

摘要

Concurrent sexual partnerships are hypothesised to be the distinguishing factor behind the severe HIV epidemics in sub-Saharan Africa, where 71% of new HIV infections globally in 2008 occurred. Although concurrency is informally recognised as overlapping sexual partnerships, a precise definition and agreed indicator have not emerged. Several studies of sexual behaviour suggest that concurrent partnerships are more common and accepted in sub-Saharan Africa than elsewhere, and mathematical models show that concurrent partnerships could increase the size and growth rate of HIV epidemics.7 Unfortunately, the empirical evidence is weakened by the proliferation of measures for concurrency used in different studies, some of which do not even capture whether or not partnerships overlap. In part, the various definitions and indicators reflect the complex range of sexual behaviours that create concurrency. However, to compare the role of concurrency across populations, a standard measure is necessary.