Karnataka’s HIV Test Positive Rate (TPR) has been steadily decreasing over the last decade, dropping from 1.77% in 2013-14 to 0.33% in 2024-25 (as of October). Despite this progress, the state’s TPR remains slightly higher than the national average of 0.22%.

Karnataka ranks among the top three states with the highest number of people living with HIV (PLHIV), following Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Of the 23,15,909 individuals tested this year, 7,720 returned positive results. Among women under antenatal care (ANC), the positivity rate reduced from 0.6% to 0.3% over the past five years.

Data from the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS) indicates that 1,90,560 individuals in the state are currently undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART). The cumulative HIV cases registered at ART centers have reached 3,98,157 as of October 2024. Key districts like Bengaluru, Belagavi, Bagalkot, and Mysuru reported the highest case numbers.

Bagalkot district, which faces challenges due to migratory workers from Maharashtra, has seen improvement following targeted awareness campaigns and index testing. According to District AIDS Control Officer Dr. Suvarna Kulkarni, initiatives like college outreach programs and special drives have played a crucial role.

KSAPS Project Director Nagaraj N M highlighted that districts along national highways remain high-risk zones, particularly for truck drivers. Innovative approaches, including campaigns on dating apps and social media, have been launched to increase awareness and medical support infrastructure.

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