Health authorities in Balochistan have raised concerns over the growing number of HIV/AIDS cases in the province, with official data showing 3,303 registered patients, including 2,362 men, 707 women, and 90 transgender individuals. Officials also reported 452 deaths linked to the disease.
According to the Balochistan AIDS Control Programme, Quetta remains the most affected district with over 2,100 registered cases, followed by Turbat, Hub, Loralai, and Naseerabad. Health experts say the increase in reported cases is partly due to improved testing and surveillance, allowing more people to be diagnosed and registered.
Medical experts warn that HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, contaminated blood transfusions, shared needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth. They have urged the public to seek timely testing, use safe medical practices, and avoid the reuse of syringes and unsterilized instruments.
Officials stressed that early diagnosis and access to antiretroviral treatment can help people with HIV live long, healthy lives while reducing the risk of transmission. They also called for greater public awareness and efforts to reduce the stigma associated with HIV testing and treatment.
