THE National Aids Trust (NAT) is demanding more be done to tackle the large number of HIV cases diagnosed late in the town.

The charity’s research shows that 62 per cent of Swindon people disgnosed with the condition have had it for four years or more.

Late diagnosis can lead to a reduced life expectancy, impaired health and a greater chance of passing the virus on, it said.

The UK average for late diagnosis is 42 per cent,which the group still believes is too high, and Swindon Borough Council said it is working to improve the figure.

Deborah Gold, NAT chief executive, said: “Swindon Council is responsible for ensuring that its residents have the information they need about HIV risk and testing.

“We know that up to 80 per cent of people get HIV from someone who doesn’t know they have it.

“Making sure people have access to HIV tests in GPs surgeries, A&Es and community settings not only helps individuals but prevents further HIV transmission.”

She is calling for local authorities to spend more money on treating people with HIV.

The estimated lifetime cost of supporting someone with the condition is £361,000.

Deborah said: “A significant reduction in HIV transmission in England will not be achieved unless we substantially increase the overall amount being spent on HIV prevention by local authorities.”

The charity has produced a report on HIV prevention in England’s high prevalence local authorities, with increased investment being one of the key recommendations.

Dr Ayoola Oyinloye, public health consultant at Swindon Borough Council, said: “We are committed to improving HIV diagnosis in Swindon and measures, including additional investment, have been put in place to help achieve this.

“For instance, we are raising awareness and encouraging uptake of testing among groups most at risk.

“We offer testing to people through our integrated sexual health service and it is also available at targeted community events and groups.

“To further build on this we’re in the process of commissioning pharmacies to provide free testing for anyone.

“Most of the late diagnoses in Swindon are asymptomatic, which poses an additional challenge as they are not experiencing obvious signs or necessarily considering themselves to be at risk.”