ISLAMABAD: The prevalence of HIV in Pakistan has reached an alarming level, with over 9,000 cases recorded in the first nine months of 2024. This staggering number highlights an urgent public health concern that requires immediate attention and action.
In just the initial nine months of the year, 9,713 cases of HIV were reported nationwide—an average of 1,079 new cases every month. Health experts anticipate that by the end of 2024, a total of 12,950 cases will be documented, slightly exceeding the 12,731 cases reported last year, according to the Federal Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination.
Official data reveals that men constitute the majority of the reported HIV cases at 69.4%, followed by women at 20.5%, transgender individuals at 4.1%, and children at 6%.
Punjab continues to bear the brunt of the epidemic, reporting the highest number of HIV cases at 5,691, followed by: Sindh: 2,383 cases, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 926 cases, Balochistan: 329 cases, Islamabad: 378 cases, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir: 10 cases.
These figures underline the need for targeted interventions in the most affected regions to curb the spread of the virus.
Health experts and authorities have expressed grave concern over the shifting trajectory of HIV infections. The virus, once confined to high-risk groups, is now infiltrating the general population. This shift is attributed to a lack of awareness, unsafe sexual practices, and insufficient preventive measures in healthcare settings.
The growing number of HIV cases emphasizes the need for a comprehensive national strategy that includes:
• Public awareness campaigns to educate people about the risks and prevention of HIV.
• Enhanced access to diagnostic and treatment facilities.
• Implementation of strict safety protocols in healthcare environments to prevent transmission.
The government and health organizations must act swiftly to address these challenges and prevent the epidemic from escalating further.