Hong Kong should have clearer HIV testing guidelines for lower-risk groups: health experts

Hong Kong medical experts have called for clearer guidelines on HIV testing among lower-risk groups amid a surge in cases of late diagnosis in the city.

The specialists voiced their opinion on Saturday, a day after the Hong Kong Advisory Council on Aids (ACA) recommended making testing a regular practice for the wider population, beyond just those who were most at risk, to address the rising number of late diagnosis cases.

“In view of the latest situation, the Advisory Council on Aids recommends normalisation of HIV testing among the non-key population, enabling people with HIV who are unaware of their status to receive a timely diagnosis and treatment,” the council said.

The proportion of people with late diagnosis among newly reported HIV patients in Hong Kong increased from 28.5 per cent in 2014 to 47 per cent in 2023, mirroring trends overseas.

The Centre for Health Protection’s scientific committee on Aids and sexually transmitted infections on Friday also issued its latest recommendations on HIV testing, calling people who have had sex to get tested at least once in their lifetime to keep track of their health status.

The advisory council said its members supported the committee’s recommendations, which could encourage HIV testing in the general public.