HIV rates climb
among New York City's gay men

HIV diagnoses among gay and bisexual men are rising in New York City, climbing from 26% of the city's total new HIV cases in 2001 to 39% through the first six months of 2005. Much of the increase appears to be among gay and bisexual men under 30, according to a report by the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. HIV rates rose among white, Latino, and African-American young men who have sex with men, health officials say. New York city council speaker Christine Quinn calls the data showing rising infection rates "troubling" and says it is clear that HIV prevention messages aren't resonating with young gay men. (The Advocate)