OF the numerous health crises affecting Pakistan, tackling the spread of HIV/AIDS seems to have been relegated to secondary status as compared to other daunting health challenges, such as polio and measles. However, as figures indicate, the state and society cannot afford to ignore HIV, especially when medical experts have described the surge in AIDS cases as a “concentrated epidemic”.

As reported in this paper, according to the Sindh AIDS Control Programme, there has been a 300pc increase in HIV/AIDS cases over the past five years in the province. One expert quoted in the report says there has been a “continuous rise” in HIV/AIDS cases since 1996. UNAIDS offers a similar view for the nation as a whole; according to the UN programme there has been an “eight-fold” increase in new HIV infections between 2001 and 2012.

Injecting drug users have the highest prevalence of HIV, while sex workers come in second. Spouses and partners of these vulnerable groups, as well as migrants working in the Gulf and their spouses, are also at risk. Overall, around 87,000 people are said to be living with HIV/AIDS in the country.

Government efforts to halt the spread of AIDS began in the late 1980s. But after initial enthusiasm and activity, efforts appear to be suffering from “a lack of focus”, as some experts have put it. And as is the case with other areas of governance, implementation of health initiatives has shifted primarily to the provinces in the wake of devolution. Hence what is needed is a proactive response from the provincial AIDS control programmes.

The federal government can play a coordinating and supporting role while the good work NGOs have done in the field of creating awareness about HIV/AIDS needs to be recognised and encouraged. In order to tackle the spread of HIV/AIDS, the UN has recommended that updated data records be maintained while expansion of testing services, especially amongst vulnerable groups, is required.

Along with efforts to prevent new HIV cases through awareness, the state must ensure those living with the condition have access to medical care and support. With information, planning and effort, the further spread of HIV/AIDS can hopefully be halted in Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, May 25th, 2014