In the United States, sexual contact is the most common route of HIV transmission. As of December 2004, 44% of AIDS cases reported to the CDC were among men who contracted HIV through sex with other men (MSM). The term MSM is important – and used quite a bit in this lesson – because many men who have sex with men do not necessarily identify themselves as "gay" or even "bisexual." HIV transmitted through sexual activity among heterosexuals accounted for 13% of all AIDS cases reported to the CDC, with most of these cases among women infected by men. Only a small percentage (less than 5%) of AIDS cases in the United States involves men who were infected with HIV through sexual activity with HIV-positive women.
Heterosexual intercourse is the most common mode of HIV transmission in poor countries. In Africa slightly more than 80% of infections are acquired heterosexually, while mother-to-child transmission and transfusions of contaminated blood account for the remaining infections. In Latin America, most infections are acquired through MSM and through misuse of injected drugs, but heterosexual transmission is rising. Heterosexual contact and injection of drugs are the main modes of HIV transmission in South and South East Asia.
The reason why sexual activity is a risk for HIV transmission is because it allows for the exchange of body fluids. Researchers have consistently found that HIV can be transmitted via blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. It is also true that HIV has been detected in saliva, tears, and urine. However, HIV in these fluids is only found in extremely low concentrations. What's more, there hasn't been a single case of HIV transmission through these fluids reported to the CDC.
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