HIV_AIDS_Prevention_India.pptx HIV AIDS PREVENTION

Aids Prevention

1. HIV/AIDS in India: Current Scenario and Prevention A Comprehensive Overview on HIV/AIDS and Prevention Strategies in India

2. Introduction to HIV/AIDS • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, weakening the body's defense. • AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV. • Spread through unprotected sex, sharing needles, infected blood, and mother-to-child transmission. • India has the third-largest HIV epidemic in the world, with 2.3 million people living with HIV.

3. HIV/AIDS in India: Facts and Statistics • In 2022, India had 2.3 million people living with HIV (PLHIV). • Key affected populations: sex workers, injecting drug users, men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender individuals. • HIV prevalence in India has declined from 0.55% in 2001 to 0.22% in 2021. • 69,220 new HIV infections were reported in 2021, according to NACO. • Highest prevalence states: Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.

4. Causes and Risk Factors • Unprotected sexual contact (heterosexual and homosexual). • Sharing of needles and syringes, particularly among injecting drug users (IDUs). • Infected blood transfusions or organ transplants. • Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. • Lack of awareness and education about safe practices.

5. Prevention Strategies for HIV/AIDS • Safe sex practices: consistent use of condoms, reducing the number of sexual partners. • Regular HIV testing, particularly for high-risk groups. • Needle exchange programs to reduce HIV spread among injecting drug users. • Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) through antenatal care. • Promotion of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at high risk. • Comprehensive sex education in schools and communities.

6. National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) • Launched in 1992, the NACP aims to prevent and control HIV/AIDS in India. • Focuses on prevention, care, support, and treatment. • Targets key populations such as high-risk groups, pregnant women, and those living with HIV. • Implements HIV testing, antiretroviral therapy (ART), and counseling services. • Public awareness campaigns, stigma reduction efforts, and education programs.

7. Government Initiatives and Policies • National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) manages HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment in India. • Free HIV testing, ART, and counseling services available nationwide. • The HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Act, 2017, aims to eliminate discrimination against PLHIV. • Targeted interventions for high-risk groups such as sex workers and IDUs. • Social support programs for individuals living with HIV and their families.

8. Treatment and Care in India • Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): available for free through government programs. • Regular monitoring of viral load and immune system health. • Support services including counseling, mental health support, and nutrition. • Community-based care models to support people living with HIV (PLHIV). • Initiatives to reduce stigma and discrimination faced by PLHIV.

9. Challenges and Future Directions • Ongoing stigma and discrimination against PLHIV in India. • Limited access to healthcare services in rural areas. • Need for greater awareness and education in high-prevalence regions. • Continued focus on prevention, particularly among high-risk populations. • Strengthening community engagement and healthcare infrastructure.

10. Conclusion • HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge in India. • Prevention, treatment, and care are essential to reduce the impact of the epidemic. • Government programs and community engagement are key to controlling HIV/AIDS. • Education, awareness, and reducing stigma are critical for future success.