Mumbai Epidemiologist emphasizes on effective treatment of all HIV patients key to ending AIDS

New Delhi: Mumbai-based epidemiologist Ishwar Gilada emphasized the critical role of proper treatment for all HIV-positive patients in curbing the transmission of the virus and potentially ending AIDS in India.

"We can end AIDS now as science has shown us the evidence on how to stop the spread of HIV infection and keep people living with HIV healthy. If all people can secure the full range of HIV combination prevention, testing, treatment and care services they need, then we can arrest the further spread of infection along with helping people with HIV lead a healthy and productive life. To end AIDS, we need to ensure that no one is excluded," said Gilada, President Emeritus at the 15th National Conference of the AIDS Society of India (ASICON 2024), reports IANS.

The theme of the two-day conference, 'Informs, Reforms and Transforms HIV-care', underscores the importance of informed approaches, necessary reforms, and transformative actions in HIV care. 

Also Read: Rising Concerns: Surge in Gastric Outlet Obstruction Cases Linked to Drug Abuse

India has the second largest population in the world with HIV. Out of the estimated 24.67 lakh people living with HIV in India, 16.80 lakhs are receiving lifesaving antiretroviral therapy, as per a National Aids Control Organisation (NACO) report 2023.