PMA Calls for Urgent Action on HIV/AIDS Crisis
The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is urging the government to take immediate action against the escalating HIV/AIDS crisis within the nation. The medical body expressed grave concerns regarding the rising number of cases and has called for urgent interventions to address the unfolding public health emergency. SindhNews.com
Rising HIV Cases in the Provinces
Data indicates a worrisome trend. In Sindh, there are 3,995 registered HIV-positive children. Recent incidents at a Karachi hospital, where over 15 children were diagnosed with HIV, highlight potential infection control failures. Furthermore, Balochistan witnessed 462 new cases last year, bringing the total registered patients to 2,823. However, estimates suggest the actual number could be between 7,000 and 9,000.
Funding Gaps and Programme Stalls
Adding to the complexity, the Global Fund has reduced its support by $27 million. The PMA warns that these funding cuts threaten to disrupt timely diagnoses and prevention efforts. Moreover, the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) faces a standstill due to resource limitations. The PMA emphasizes the need to address unsafe medical practices contributing to the spread of the virus.
Consequences of Inaction
The PMA has issued a stark warning: A reduction of 50% in the HIV programme’s reach could lead to an additional 1.1 million children contracting HIV and an estimated 820,000 deaths from AIDS-related complications by 2040. The organization urges the government to fill the financial void left by the $27 million reduction in donor aid.
Conclusion
The Pakistani government must address the HIV/AIDS crisis promptly. The PMA’s calls for action highlight the urgent need for increased funding, improved infection control measures, and proactive intervention to prevent further spread and mitigate the devastating impact of the disease.