Udupi district has witnessed a remarkable drop in HIV/AIDS cases, attributed to sustained awareness and health initiatives led by the local health department. The HIV positivity rate among the general population has reduced from 7.90% in 2008-09 to just 0.20% in 2024. Similarly, the positivity rate among pregnant women has fallen dramatically from 0.54% to 0.01% over the same period.
While the number of HIV-related deaths fluctuates annually—145 in 2023-24 and 55 so far in 2024-25—Dr. I.P. Gadad, the District Health Officer, emphasized that late diagnoses contribute to these deaths. He urged the public to prioritize early detection to improve treatment outcomes.
Dr. Chidananda Sanju, the district AIDS control officer, highlighted the dangers of delayed diagnosis, which can result in weakened immunity due to a drop in white blood cells. He called for heightened vigilance to prevent complications. Udupi also achieved a significant milestone by reporting no cases of mother-to-child transmission of HIV since 2016. Currently, 126 patients are receiving treatment, including 42 from outside the district.
Efforts to reduce the social stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS continue, ensuring that patients have access to timely care and support.
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