NYC Sees 7.6% Rise in HIV Diagnoses Amid 177% Drop in New Infections, Targeting Disparities in Care

New York City reported a 7.6% increase in HIV diagnoses between 2022 and 2023, alongside a significant decline in new infections estimated at 177%. During a public meeting held by the New York City Council’s committees on general welfare and health, officials discussed how the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) collects and interprets these numbers, revealing a complex relationship between diagnosis rates and the overall incidence of HIV.

The DOHMH noted that the increase in diagnoses is tied to more people engaging with healthcare services, particularly after disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend indicates improved detection of long-term HIV-positive individuals who had not yet received diagnoses (Source: https://youtu.be/HHvcASbuTmc&t=2719). The department emphasized that the 177% decrease in estimated new infections does not contradict the rise in diagnoses because the two statistics reflect different aspects of the HIV epidemic. Being diagnosed reflects confirmed positive test results, while the estimation of new infections refers to newly acquired cases that may not yet be reported in the surveillance system (Source: https://youtu.be/HHvcASbuTmc&t=2460).

Testimony also highlighted that among those newly diagnosed in 2023, Black and Latino New Yorkers made up a staggering 83% of cases. As these communities face higher poverty rates, the DOHMH is actively working to ensure that resources for prevention and care are effectively directed toward them (Source: https://youtu.be/HHvcASbuTmc&t=552).

The meeting participants reinforced the need for continued support and comprehensive programming that addresses the specific challenges these populations face, including access to housing and medical care. Over 33,000 households currently receive case management services from the HIV/AIDS Services Administration (HASA), with emphasis on building a robust support system for those in need (Source: https://youtu.be/HHvcASbuTmc&t=390). This underscores the ongoing effort required to tackle the disparities affecting communities significantly impacted by HIV/AIDS.

Regarding the city’s comprehensive approach, officials noted that 88% of people with HIV in New York City were receiving medical care in 2023, with 89% of those achieving viral suppression, which reduces the risk of transmission (Source: https://youtu.be/HHvcASbuTmc&t=472). The developments reflect New York City’s commitment to confronting the HIV epidemic actively, highlighting the need to enhance preventive measures while also addressing the broader social inequities that contribute to the ongoing crisis.