AIDS remains a significant public health challenge, spreading quietly but steadily. Emphasising the importance of awareness, Dr. Anuradha, Joint Director of Telangana SARC (Scientific and Applied Research Centre), stated that the disease can be effectively controlled with the right knowledge and timely intervention. She inaugurated the AIDS Awareness Walk organised by Kamineni Hospitals on the occasion of World AIDS Day on Monday. Nearly 300 people, including doctors, medical students, nursing staff, and members of the public, participated while holding placards to spread information about HIV/AIDS.
Rising Cases Highlight Need for Early Diagnosis
Speaking during the event, Consultant Physician Dr. Srikrishna Raghavendra explained that India has 24 lakh HIV-positive individuals, with Telangana reporting 1.4 lakh cases. He noted that the gender distribution is equal, with men and women affected in similar proportions. Due to improved testing, more cases are also being identified among children, largely due to parental transmission. He urged individuals experiencing frequent fever, persistent fatigue, or unexplained weakness to seek medical evaluation without delay.
He stressed that testing positive for HIV is not a cause for panic. Instead, the first step is to register at an Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (ICTC). For residents of LB Nagar, the nearest ICTC centre operates in Vanasthalipuram.
Kamineni ART Centre Provides Free Medication and Support
As per the press release, the ART Centre at Kamineni Hospitals, functioning under the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model since 2022, distributes antiretroviral medications free of cost as per government guidelines. Along with Kamineni, Gandhi Hospital, Osmania Hospital, and Chest Hospital also offer ART services. Currently, the Kamineni F-ICTC Centre has 1,200 registered individuals, and around 35–40 patients visit daily to collect government-supplied medication. The centre ensures regular follow-ups, consistent testing, and uninterrupted medicine distribution. Moreover, it conducts awareness programmes for women, transgender persons, and other vulnerable groups to help prevent HIV transmission.
Addressing Stigma and Discrimination
Senior Consultant Physician Dr. M. Swami pointed out that stigma against HIV-positive individuals persists in society. He emphasised that widespread awareness is essential to eliminate discrimination. Unfortunately, he added, even some healthcare providers hesitate to treat HIV patients. He stressed that this attitude must change, and equitable care should be extended to all.
Promoting Prevention Through Education
Medical Superintendent Dr. Anjaiah Kanusali explained that HIV spreads through unprotected sexual contact, unsafe blood transfusions, and certain high-risk exposures. However, he reiterated that transmission is preventable with proper precautions. Even if someone tests positive, they should not panic, as the government provides free antiretroviral medication. He urged patients to register at the nearest ART Centre and continue treatment consistently.
Leaders and Faculty Participate in the Event
The programme was attended by Organizing Chairperson and Head of General Medicine Prof. Dr. Shyam Sundar, Principal Dr. Sudhir Babu Padugul, Senior Consultant Physician Dr. J. Harikrishna, Consultant Physician Dr. Pradeep Kumar Patel, ART Centre CMO Dr. Peddi Ramakrishna, Prof. Dr. P. Ratnachari, Dr. I. Suresh, Assistant Professor Dr. Dakshayani, and several other faculty members.