AIDS-related deaths down by 79% as India has adopted a 90-90-90 target for combating AIDS

INDORE(Madhya Pradesh): Deaths due to HIV epidemic  in India has been declined by 79% over the years with new infections in the country in 2023 almost 44% lower than in 2010.

Speaking at a function on World Aids day here,the Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda,said that the number of new HIV cases in India has decreased by 44% since 2010 which is higher than the global reduction rate of 39%. There has also been a 79% decline in deaths due to AIDS.

He noted that India has adopted a 90-90-90 target for combating AIDS which includes the target of detecting 90% cases of AIDS in the country, 90% of people to be treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 90% to have their viral load suppressed. He stated that this target was later increased to 95-95-95, out of which 81% people with AIDS have been identified, 88% are being given ART and viral load of 97% identified people has been suppressed.

The Union Health Minister emphasized on three important directives for people to pursue regarding the fight against AIDS. First, he emphasized the importance of caution to prevent HIV/AIDS infections, noting that people can contract the virus not only through sexual intercourse but also through other routes.

Second, he stressed the need for adopting a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep, to prevent many illnesses. Additionally, he highlighted the significance of raising awareness and combating stereotypes through various initiatives like village meetings, school performances, and educational campaigns. He also urged authorities to evaluate the effectiveness of their AIDS control efforts and address any gaps.

Expressing his admiration for health workers for handling such diseases with extreme care and dedication,  Nadda noted that they carry on their work despite being exposed to infected people at all times and emphasized on the need to protect them.

The Union Minister highlighted the long struggle faced by India in its fight against AIDS. “From a time when there was no medicine for AIDS, to dealing with over-expensive medicines to now becoming a net supplier of HIV medicines to the world, India has come a long way in its fight against AIDS”, he stated. He noted that today India is taking a lead in AIDS control by producing the most affordable as well as effective medicines and sharing them with the neediest. He also stated that the Union government provides free medicines for AIDS patients.

 Marking the occasion of World AIDS Day, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda inaugurated the World AIDS Day 2024 commemoration in the presence of Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh at the Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya Auditorium, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, today.

This year’s theme, “Take the Rights Path”, emphasizes the importance of ensuring equal rights, dignity, and access to healthcare for all, particularly for those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.