Abstract:
The study concluded that a fertile ground is laid for the spread of HIV infections in Sri
Lanka with the high prevalence of risky sexual behaviours such as multiple partners, low
level of condom use among the high vulnerable groups and increase in the number of herpes
simplex virus infection that promote the transmission of HIV infection.The study revealed
that up to now, the HIV infection has not had a measurable impact on mortality. The reason
for the present discrepancy among the reported and estimated cases of HIV would be
incorrect estimates, low reporting of cases and poor case detection. A sexual behavioural
surveillance system, particularly in the FSWs, clients of sex workers and MSMs and a
sexual behavour survey among the general population is recommended. The data can be
incorporated into the present simulation model to estimate and project cumulative HIV
infections in Sri Lanka.The mortality on HIV related deaths and trends in STIs need to be
monitored regularly in order to detect an increase in the trends, which will be a signal of an
impending epidemic.
