Rising HIV Incidence Among the Elderly in Brazil: A Public Health Challenge (Atena Editora)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The introduction highlights the growing incidence of HIV among the elderly population in Brazil, framing it as a significant public health concern. It discusses the demographic shift towards older individuals living with HIV, driven by both new infections and the aging of individuals already infected. The introduction also outlines the biological, social, and healthcare factors contributing to this trend and emphasizes the need for targeted public health interventions and policies. OBJETIVE To explore the increasing incidence of HIV among the elderly population in Brazil METHODS This is a narrative review which included studies in the MEDLINE – PubMed (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health), COCHRANE, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases, using as descriptors: “HIV incidence” AND “Elderly population” AND “Epidemiology” AND “Public health” AND “Antiretroviral therapy” in the last years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The results and discussion sections delve into the epidemiological data, showing a clear increase in HIV cases among individuals aged 60 and above. It explores biological susceptibilities, such as the aging immune system and comorbidities, and their impact on HIV management. The discussion also covers social factors, including the persistence of sexual activity, the rise in divorce rates, and the use of dating apps, all of which contribute to the heightened risk of HIV. The role of public health policies and the need for tailored interventions and education programs are examined, alongside a comparison of global trends to provide context and learn from international strategies. CONCLUSION The increasing incidence of HIV among the elderly population in Brazil represents a multifaceted public health challenge. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that considers biological susceptibility, evolving sexual behaviors, and the role of new social platforms. Effective public health strategies must include targeted education, improved access to preventive measures, and robust support systems to reduce stigma and ensure comprehensive care for older adults living with HIV.