HIV prevalence in Brazil 2005-2015: data from the Unified Health System

INTRODUCTION: HIV has become one of the biggest public health problems in the world. Brazil has progressed in relation to treatment; however, it has had some setbacks. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of HIV in Brazil for the period from 2005-2015. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study with secondary data from the Unified Health System (DATASUS) on HIV notifications. Statistical analysis was performed by using the chi-square test to compare the frequency of the number of cases, according to the variables of case reporting and obtaining HIV rates. RESULTS: Between 2005 and 2015, Brazil had an increase in the rates of HIV notifications, going from 11 cases to 18 cases per 100-thousand inhabitants. The southern region had an increase from 16.6 to 28.9 cases per 100-thousand inhabitants. Men had the highest rates of notifications, with the age range from 30 to 49 years of age being the most prevalent. The white color/race had the highest average percentage (46.9%) of people with notification between 2005 and 2012. People with lower educational levels had a drop in reporting rates between 2005 and 2015, from 45.4% to 27.9%. DISCUSSION: In Brazil, increased HIV prevalence rates were observed during the period evaluated, with a prevalence of new cases in males 30 to 49 age group. CONCLUSIONS: Health prevention and education measures in this population most exposed to the risk are needed in the country with higher frequency, especially in regions with the highest number of records in the country.