Papua New Guinea (PNG) has the highest number of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections in the Asia-Pacific region, Islands Business reports (islandsbuisness.com 7/2).

Ninety-four percent of infections were through heterosexual sex, according to Dr. John Millan. Dr. Millan presented at the 40th anniversary of the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research.

Dr. Millan said more than 23,000 cases were reported at the end of last year. Experts predict more than 127,000 people in PNG will acquire HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted infections by 2010.

According to data obtained from provincial hospitals, infections were highest for young females and older males.