Kashmir Gets a Grip on AIDS

Current HIV prevalence in the north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is less than predicted years ago by the National AIDS Control Organization. In 2002-03, NACO suggested about 40,000 people there would be infected with HIV in two years, and 20,000 people would die of AIDS by 2015.

A sentinel survey by Jammu and Kashmir AIDS Prevention and Control Society (JKAPCS) showed HIV prevalence has declined from 1.2 percent in 2009 to 0.03 percent last year. There are 2,787 people with HIV/AIDS in the state, including 800 women and 176 children.

“There have been fewer and fewer new cases,” said Dr. M. A. Wani, former JKAPCS director. “Owing to the social stigma, people are reluctant to discuss topics around HIV/AIDS or avail of testing and treatment service,” Wani explained.

The Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences in Srinagar was able to get an antiretroviral treatment center “with great difficulty because of the small number of patients,” Wani said. With one ART center each in Jammu and Kashmir, the state treats 683 patients, NACO said in June.

Residents ages 15-45 are most at risk of HIV in the state, said Dr. Latief Ahmad, JKAPCS deputy director. Most infections are sexually acquired, Latief said, with troops, truck drivers, migrant laborers, and regular travelers among the most at-risk populations.

“It has been noted that well-developed cities and towns fall prey more easily to HIV,” said Wani. “Since Kashmir is largely underdeveloped, we are on the safer side.”

JKAPCS has advised thousands of school teachers and more 1,000 religious leaders about HIV/AIDS.

The Friends of AIDS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.

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