HIV prevalence among young adults in Salvador and the metropolitan region

Abstract

Objective: The prevalence of HIV in the Salvador metropolitan area was analyzed in an ecological study between 2002 and 2021, aiming to understand the factors underlying the increase in cases among young people aged 20 to 24. Methods: Data collection from compulsory notification and results tabulation using TABNET and Microsoft Excel. Factors such as exposure, sex, and education level of the diagnosed individuals were considered, along with temporal analysis to identify trends. Results: An upward trend in HIV prevalence was identified, with a significant 62.3% increase in the region, rising from 19.9 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2002 to 32.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2021. Camaçari stood out with an alarming 432% growth. Salvador, Lauro de Freitas, and Simões Filho also showed increases in prevalence, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Analysis by sex indicated higher prevalence among men, while analysis by exposure category revealed a significant number of cases among heterosexuals, possibly contributing to vertical transmission. Conclusion: There is an urgent need for integrated public policies to improve access to health services, sexual education, and preventive interventions, especially in areas of high urban concentration and population density. Future studies should explore social and economic determinants of health more deeply to develop effective strategies for combating the spread of HIV in the region.