The number of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the Netherlands rose in its fifth consecutive year in 2004, said a report published in the eve of World Aids Day.

The largest increase was among gay and bisexual men, but there was also an increase among heterosexual groups, said the report published on Wednesday by Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).

"This points to an increase in unsafe sexual behavior. Alertness is called for to prevent a further rise in HIV and other STDs. But innovative methods of prevention and intervention are necessary," RIVM warned.

In total there are 10,600 people in the Netherlands registered as having the infection. "The total number of people with HIV, including those who are not aware that they are infected, is estimated to be between 16,000 and 24,000," RIVM said.

The report said men who engage in homosexual contact form the largest group (52 percent). After a decline in previous years, the share of gay men with HIV began to climb again in 2004.

In contrast, the share of people infected after heterosexual contact fell for the first time in years in 2004.

Source: Xinhua