Male-to-female transmission of HIV in a cohort of hemophiliacs — Frequency, risk factors and effect of sexual counseling

The incidence of male-to-female transmission of HIV infection was studied in a population of 198 sexual partners of hemophiliacs who tested HIV positive since 1984. The follow-up observation period was 1987–1992. Transmission occurred in 20 (10%) cases. The analysis of risk factors for transmission was performed in a subgroup of 57 hemophiliacs with seronegative sexual partners as compared to eight transmitters. Transmitters showed a significantly more advanced immune depletion at enrollment as well as at the end of the observation period. Furthermore, transmitters had a more advanced disease at the end of the study (75% vs. 29% CDC IV; p