Aids e envelhecimento: características dos casos com idade igual ou maior que 50 anos em Pernambuco, de 1990 a 2000

There is no consensus in the literature on the clinical-epidemiological trend of individuals with AIDS in different age groups. Some authors say that AIDS equally affects individuals who above 50 years of age and younger individuals. This study compares socio-demographic and clinical-epidemiologic characteristics of individuals 50 years old and older with the 20-39-year-old group. The individuals are residents of Pernambuco and were diagnosed with AIDS between January 1st, 1990 and December 31st, 2000. An observational, cross-sectional, population-based study was developed with secondary data from cases reported to the health department of the state of Pernambuco and through chart review. The sample comprised 3,565 cases, 10.8% 50 years or more, and 89.2% between 20-39 years of age. The annual incidence was similar in both groups, except in the last two years when there was a slight decrease in the younger group. Prevalence (RP) was estimated for the variables included. Differences were not found in relation to gender, lymphocyte T (CD4) count, and co-morbidities. On the other hand, a significant difference was observed between groups in relation to site of residence (RP=1.23, c2 = 4.45, p= 0.03), educational level (RP=1.48, c2 = 4.49, p= 0.03), HIV exposure RP=1.81, c2 = 27.77, p< 0.001), and vital status (RP=1.32, c2 = 7.69, p< 0.001). Results showed a gradually slow increase in the AIDS epidemic in the 50-70-year-old group, with predominance of a lower educational level and heterosexual choice. Questions related to AIDS and aging need to be deepened, mainly due to the increase in life expectancy of the Brazilian population, in order to reorient HIV prevention and infection control actions.