RECENT FINDINGS ABOUT THE HETEROSEXUAL TRANSMISSION OF HIV AND AIDS

Study of the heterosexual transmission of HIV has shifted focus from t he behavioral and demographic risk factors associated with HIV to the biological and molecular factors. Although factors such as genetic pre disposition may be immutable, others such as co-infection with sexuall y transmitted diseases are modifiable by the use of treatment. The eff ect of antiretroviral treatment is also promising but deserves more st udy, as does the use of contraception and microbicides (chemical barri ers meant for intravaginal use). (C) 1998 Rapid Science Ltd.