On the occasion of World AIDS Day, it was revealed by Coordinator of Balochistan AIDS Control Programme, Dr. Zulfiqar Baloch, that the province has seen a staggering rise in HIV/AIDS cases, with 462 new infections reported, bringing the total number of registered HIV patients to 2,823. This alarming surge in cases highlights the growing threat posed by the disease, particularly in high-risk districts identified by health authorities. The news is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive measures to curb its spread.
Balochistan’s situation is not isolated. It reflects a broader, concerning trend in Pakistan, where HIV outbreaks have been seen over the last two decades. Since 2018, the country has experienced four major HIV outbreaks, with the disease disproportionately affecting high-risk populations such as people who inject drugs, transgender women, prisoners and female sex workers. These groups are particularly vulnerable due to a combination of risky behaviours, social stigma and limited access to healthcare services. The root causes of these outbreaks are multi-faceted and deeply ingrained in healthcare system that includes poor infection control practices, unregulated and unsafe blood transfusions, and questionable ethical practices by healthcare providers have all contributed to the spread of HIV. Additionally, the presence of untrained healthcare professionals exacerbates the situation, preventing effective prevention and treatment measures from being implemented.
The lack of awareness and education about HIV transmission further fuels the problem, particularly in rural and under-served areas. To stop its spread, a systemic and sustainable approach is needed — one that not only focuses on strengthening testing, tracing and treatment capabilities but also addresses underlying issues that have long been ignored. It is essential to prioritise grassroots solutions such as improving education on safe practices, enhancing public awareness campaigns and tackling social stigma. Moreover, addressing inadequacies in healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that healthcare providers are properly trained are crucial steps toward curbing this deadly epidemic.
