Altai Territory battles Russia's third-highest HIV infection rate despite progress

The Altai Territory remains one of Russia’s regions with the highest HIV infection rates. It currently ranks third, behind the Chukchi and Irkutsk regions. Health officials report a steady annual decline in new cases despite the high overall prevalence. Recent data shows the Altai Territory has over 1,300 HIV carriers per 100,000 people. Most new diagnoses occur in men of active working age. The region shares its high-risk status with Chukchi and Irkutsk, which hold the first and second positions respectively.

Over the past decade, the territory has expanded its testing efforts. HIV screening coverage has risen by 75.1%, contributing to better detection and monitoring. Despite this progress, the region still struggles with a high infection burden. The Altai Territory continues to face significant challenges with HIV. While testing has improved and new cases are falling, the region remains among the worst affected in Russia. The focus on working-age men highlights a key demographic in the ongoing response.