U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Endorses Routine HIV Screening

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPTF), an independent group of experts whose recommendations have a major influence on public policy, last revised its HIV screening guidelines in 2005. That document recommended screening of adults and adolescents at increased risk for HIV infection but — notably — did not suggest routine screening for those not known to be at increased risk. Now, based on “convincing” evidence that identification and treatment improves the health of HIV-infected individuals and prevents transmission from these individuals to their uninfected heterosexual partners, the USPSTF recommends routine HIV screening for all adolescents and adults aged 15 to 65, younger adolescents and older adults at increased risk (e.g., …