A report released by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare in May shows that 2006 suffered the biggest rise for HIV/AIDS cases in Japan.

The report reveals 952 newly diagnosed HIV-positive cases, and 406 cases of full-blown AIDS. This is the third year in a row new infections have exceeded 1,000.

Japan is unusual in industrialized nations in that the rate of HIV infection continues to rise, although absolute numbers are comparatively low.

Although some of these cases were discovered through the increase in free testing and counseling centers, the majority came to light during examination in hospital for some other reason.

National health insurance is only valid for an HIV test at specific designated hospitals in Japan, but problems arise when testing is performed without informed consent and the option of counseling.

The ministry is now formulating testing guidelines, and it is hoped that private clinics and testing companies can work with AIDS center hospitals to safely manage private data and provide care.