SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has registered approximately 6,600 HIV-positive cases over the past three decades, highlighting a persistent public health challenge that has been further exacerbated by stigma and underreporting, according to official data accessed by KINS.
While the official numbers stand at 6,600, experts warn that the actual figure may be higher, as societal discrimination and fear of stigma often deter individuals from seeking testing or treatment.
An official from the Jammu and Kashmir State AIDS Control Society (JKSACS) stressed the importance of awareness in controlling the spread of HIV, pointing to distinct regional factors contributing to the epidemic. “HIV transmission in the Kashmir valley is primarily linked to drug abuse, while in the Jammu region, high-risk groups such as female sex workers, truck drivers, and labourers contribute significantly to its spread,” the official explained. Other contributing factors include unprotected sex, unsafe blood transfusions, and shared needle use.
Dr. Mohammad Shafi, a physician, emphasized that while there is no cure for HIV, timely treatment can help individuals lead healthy lives. He urged the recognition of early symptoms and a comprehensive understanding of the virus’s long-term impact on the immune system. Doctors also strongly advise against the reuse of syringes and advocate for a multidisciplinary approach, noting that addressing HIV/AIDS is as much a behavioural issue as a medical one.
The stigma surrounding HIV remains a significant barrier to addressing the issue, with many patients choosing to conceal their condition. Mehak Jan (name changed), an HIV-positive woman, kept her diagnosis hidden from her husband and family, living in constant fear. Her anxiety intensified when she became pregnant, fearing the virus might be transmitted to her unborn child.
In another case, a man diagnosed with HIV during a routine dental check-up fled the hospital after being referred to an Anti-Retroviral Therapy Centre, seeking to protect his secret.
Experts have stressed the urgent need for widespread awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage testing, as early detection and treatment are crucial to managing the condition and preventing its transmission.
The alarming data underscores the urgency of addressing both the medical and social aspects of HIV in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure a safer, healthier future for the region. (With KINS inputs)
