3,812 people living with HIV receiving ART in Sudurpaschim as new infections decline

Dhangadhi: A total of 3,812 people living with HIV in Sudurpaschim Province are currently receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), according to data shared at a program organized by the Health Directorate, Doti, with support from AIDS Health Care Foundation (AHF) Nepal.

The data presented at the program shows that Kailali has the highest number of individuals on treatment, with 1,802 cases. This is followed by 566 in Achham, 491 in Doti, 473 in Kanchanpur, 123 in Dadeldhura, 103 in Baitadi, 97 in Bajhang, 72 in Bajura, and 51 in Darchula.

According to the Health Directorate, the number of new HIV infections has been decreasing in recent years, and about 94 percent of those infected have been enrolled in health insurance.

The program aimed to raise awareness through the media about the current status of HIV, risk groups, available services, and ongoing challenges. Experts noted that Nepal’s first HIV case was identified in 1988 and stressed the importance of early testing, regular treatment, and managing co-infections such as tuberculosis.

Sudurpaschim Province has been identified as a high-impact area, with increased risk linked to foreign employment in India. Risk groups include migrant workers, their spouses, female sex workers, drug users, gay men, and the third gender community.

At present, the province has 19 HIV testing and counseling centers, 19 ART service centers, and three viral load testing centers. Integrated services for both tuberculosis and HIV are also available.

AHF has been supporting HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care efforts in Nepal. The organization has collaborated with 19 ART centers and two border points nationwide and is directly supporting four ART centers in Sudurpaschim.

Media participants at the program expressed interest in strengthening HIV prevention, improving access to treatment, and reducing social stigma. Speakers highlighted the crucial role of the media in disseminating accurate information and raising public awareness.