Scientists at a Chinese biomedical firm have developed a five-minute HIV detection test, state media confirmed Wednesday. The Tianjin-based Keju firm said it has patented the "HIV 1+2" reagent, to be used in blood tests before surgery and blood donation, and in community medicine and health screenings, according to the Xinhua News Agency. HIV rates have risen continuously in China in recent years. The UN estimates that up to 1.5 million Chinese are infected with HIV and has warned that some 10 million people could be infected by 2010 unless effective action is taken. UNAIDS said increased prostitution, rapidly changing sexual attitudes and IV drug use are the main factors contributing to the AIDS epidemic in China.

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