AIDS patients’ increase in Balochistan alarming: Experts

Staff Report Quetta: The number of AIDS patients in Balochistan has seen a significant increase this year compared to the previous year. According to Dr. Zulfiqar Baloch, Coordinator of the Balochistan AIDS Control Program, the province has identified 2823 patients, up from 2361 last year. Six districts in Balochistan have been declared high-risk for AIDS, prompting the establishment of HIV treatment centers in Kharan, Zhob, Sibi, and Khuzdar. This move aims to provide accessible treatment options for those affected. Dr. Baloch emphasized the importance of awareness and education in combating the spread of AIDS. He explained that the AIDS virus destroys the immune system, making patients susceptible to fatal diseases. To address this, the Balochistan AIDS Control Program has conducted HIV screening tests on over one lakh people this year, including tests in all district jails. The program has also provided free testing facilities in hospitals across all districts in Balochistan, with screening kits available on-site. Furthermore, free medicines and treatment facilities are available for patients in all centers. As the world observes World AIDS Day on December 1st, the Balochistan AIDS Control Program’s efforts serve as a crucial step in addressing the growing concern of AIDS in the province. By expanding treatment options and promoting awareness, the program aims to mitigate the spread of the disease and provide support to those affected. On World AIDS Day, a renowned expert stressed the need for public awareness and advocacy to change societal attitudes towards HIV/AIDS and emphasized the importance of heightened screening, particularly before marriages, to prevent the transmission of the disease. In an interview with a private news channel, the expert said December 1 is World AIDS Day, a day to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and honour the millions of people who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. The theme for this year’s World AIDS Day is “Take the rights path: My health, my right” emphasizing the importance of protecting human rights and addressing inequalities to end the AIDS epidemic. Dr AD Usmani, Head of AIDS Control in Quetta talking to a private news channel stressed the importance of promoting open discussions and inclusivity to ensure those affected receive necessary support and care. By promoting pre-marital screening, individuals can make informed decisions about their health, reducing the risk of HIV transmission, he said, adding that addressing the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS is also crucial, encouraging open discussions and promoting inclusivity to ensure those affected receive necessary support and care. Usmani stressed that open discussion is crucial to breaking the taboo surrounding HIV/AIDS. He emphasized that health authorities should launch awareness campaigns to educate people about symptoms, causes and prevention of the disease. Dr Usmani also urged couples planning to get married to undergo HIV testing, promoting a culture of transparency and precaution. Usmani emphasized the crucial role of civil society, academia, and media in educating the public on HIV/AIDS prevention. By working together, these entities can amplify awareness campaigns, promote accurate information, and encourage open discussions about the disease. Civil society organizations can mobilize communities, provide support to affected individuals, and advocate for policies that promote HIV/AIDS prevention. Academia can contribute by conducting research, developing evidence-based prevention strategies and providing educational resources. Media outlets can disseminate accurate information, raise awareness about prevention methods, and provide a platform for open discussions. Effective collaboration among these stakeholders is essential to promote behavioural change, reduce stigma, and encourage people to take proactive steps in preventing HIV/AIDS. By leveraging their collective strengths, civil society, academia, and media can play a vital role in combating the disease and promoting public health, he added.