[Evolution of the human immunodeficiency virus seroprevalence in mothers of newborns from 8 autonomous regions (Spain), 1996-2005].

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:To asses the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seroprevalence evolution of newborns' mothers. POPULATION AND METHOD:Unlinked anonymous study of HIV antibodies in blood spots for congenital metabolic disorders detection in newborns, from 1996 to 2005; in Baleares, Canarias, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y León, Galicia, Melilla and Murcia Regions, including Valencia from 2003 on. HIV-antibodies screening was performed through ELISA and results were confirmed using immunoblot. RESULTS:Global prevalence rates were stable through the period in the 7 initially enrolled regions, near to 1 per thousand; however, during the first 5-year period the prevalence tended to increase (p < 0.05), while a reverse trend was observed in the following 5 years (p < 0.05). Baleares and Valencia showed the highest rates, although Baleares showed a declining trend. Canarias is the only region that displays an increasing trend. CONCLUSIONS:HIV prevalence in newborns' mothers remained steady during the 10-year period, but after a phase of significant increase the tendency has reverted. Data presented in this paper show the importance of monitoring HIV prevalence among women who give birth, and emphasise the need of improving antenatal prophylaxis programmes to prevent mother-to-child transmission.