Bananas help fight against HIV

Scientists say a plant protein found in bananas could be a powerful weapon in the fight against HIV.

A research team at an American university says the lectin found in bananas proved as potent as two current anti-HIV drugs in laboratory tests.

The lectin effectively stops infections by outsmarting HIV and preventing it from becoming integrated in a target cell.

Scientists say new weapons in the fight against HIV are urgently needed, and these lectins are one of the most promising options.

The University of Michigan researchers believe that vaginal microbicides made with this plant protein could be a cheap and effective treatment, particularly in developing countries.

HIV infections increasing in Queensland

Queensland Health says the number of reported HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) cases in the state is climbing.

There were 178 new cases of HIV reported in Queensland last year compared with 166 the year before.

Queensland's chief health officer Jeannette Young says the figures are worrying.

"That's the highest number that's ever been reported," she said.

Men made up 88 per cent of reported cases last year.

The highest notification rates were in the 25 to 34 age group.

Dr Young says the increase may be due to an aggressive campaign encouraging gay men to be tested.

However, she says now that treatments are available, people are more complacent about the importance of safe sex.

A new national HIV strategy will be considered by the Australian Health Ministers' Conference next month.

HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) which destroys the body's white cells, resulting in reduced immunity leaving the way open for severe infections, tumours and ultimately death.