People over 50 surprisingly prone to HIV infection

BEIJING, March 4 (Chinese medianet) -- HIV prevalence and

incidence in people 50 years of age and over seem surprisingly high, said a

study released by the World Health Organization on Tuesday.

The report found that older people, who are more likely to

risk unprotected sex than younger people, are more easily contracting

thevirus.

Among the aged, sexual activity is regarded as the most

likely mode of HIV transmission, said the study. One reason for the increase in

frequency is the use of impotence treatments that have allowed both men and

women to have more sexual partners.

　 "Since 1998, erectile dysfunction drugs have been extending the sex life of

many older individuals and, at the same time, may be extending the HIV epidemic

into older age groups," the study said.

The study also found older womenappear

tobe at higher risk of contracting HIV if they have sex without a condom

because of thinning with age of the vaginal mucous membrane, which gives natural

lubrication.

(Agencies)