Sri Lanka has recorded a dramatic rise in HIV/AIDS cases during the second half of 2024, with 214 new cases reported in the second quarter alone (April to June). This marks an 18% increase compared to the same period in 2023, which reported 181 cases.
Key Highlights:
- Age Demographics:
- 28 cases involved males aged 15-24.
- The remaining cases were reported in individuals aged 25 and above.
- Gender Distribution:
- The male-to-female ratio for reported HIV cases stands at 7:1, indicating a significantly higher prevalence among males.
- Year-to-Date Totals (2024):
- A total of 448 HIV cases have been reported so far this year, reflecting a significant increase from 346 cases recorded during the same period in 2023.
- Historical Data (Since 2009):
- 4,643 males and 1,472 females have been diagnosed with HIV in Sri Lanka.
- HIV/AIDS-Related Deaths:
- The second quarter of 2024 reported 11 HIV/AIDS-related deaths.
Public Health Concerns
This alarming trend underscores the need for enhanced awareness campaigns, early detection, and accessible treatment programs. The National STD/AIDS Control Programme is expected to strengthen its outreach to vulnerable groups and address the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on younger male demographics.
Further efforts are necessary to curb the growing cases and mitigate the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS to encourage more people to seek testing and treatment.