Balochistan has reported a sharp rise in HIV cases, with total registered patients reaching 3,303 ahead of World AIDS Day 2025.
The number of registered AIDS patients in Balochistan has risen to 3,303, including 707 women and 90 transgender persons, with 452 related deaths reported over the past year, senior health officials announced on Sunday. The figures were shared during a press briefing at the Quetta Press Club ahead of World AIDS Day 2025, observed globally today.
Director of Health Services Balochistan Dr Hashim Mengal, accompanied by Dr Sehrin Noshirwani, provincial coordinator of the AIDS Control Programme, said the rise in reported cases also reflects improved surveillance and increased screenings. Registered HIV cases climbed from 2,851 in 2024 to 3,303 in 2025, marking 452 new cases within a year.
Officials said more patients are stepping forward for diagnosis and treatment—an encouraging trend. Male patients recorded the highest increase, rising from 2,075 to 2,362, while female cases increased from 600 to 707. Transgender individuals accounted for 90 registered cases.
District-Wise Breakdown
-
Quetta remains the most affected district with 2,164 cases
-
Turbat: 368
-
Hub: 158
-
Naseerabad: 66
-
Loralai: 96
Officials identified drug-injecting users as the group with the highest HIV prevalence, followed by men who have sex with men and transgender persons.
Causes Behind the Surge
Health experts said HIV spreads through:
-
Unprotected sexual contact
-
Mother-to-child transmission
-
Blood transfusions using untested blood
-
Shared syringes
-
Unsterilised medical or barber tools
They attributed the rise in cases largely to low public awareness and risky health practices.
Government Response
To curb infections, the Balochistan Health Department has established AIDS therapy centres in Quetta, Turbat, and four other districts. These centres offer free treatment and screening at government hospitals. Awareness drives are conducted year-round to educate communities about HIV prevention.
Officials also emphasised the significance of the red ribbon, a global symbol of solidarity with people living with HIV/AIDS. They called for unified efforts to eliminate HIV from Balochistan. The event was attended by Dr Khudaidad Osmani, Dr Ehsanullah, and Muhammad Khan Zehri.
