The head of the AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases control department at Iran's Ministry of Health has once again expressed concern about the changing pattern of AIDS infection, citing factors such as the increase in the number of women infected with AIDS and the low average age of nearly half of the patients. Abbas Sadaqat, in an interview with ISNA published on June 6, stated that the Ministry of Health has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Science and Technology to conduct education, awareness, and campaigns against HIV and sexually transmitted diseases in Iranian universities. According to 'the latest collected data' since 2013, he announced that the number of people infected with HIV is 28,000, emphasizing that 'drug use' remains the most significant factor in the spread of this virus. The HIV virus targets the immune system and is the cause of AIDS, which has claimed the lives of tens of millions since its emergence in 1981. The latent and early stages of the disease can last a long time. Mr. Sadaqat had previously stated that up to 60,000 Iranians might be unaware of their illness. In his recent interview, he added that despite the drug use factor, unprotected sexual relations among younger groups have 'significantly' impacted the increase in the disease. Abbas Sadaqat reported that 46% of AIDS patients are between the ages of 25 and 35. According to this official, the number of women infected with the disease has also increased since 2013. The head of the AIDS control department at the Ministry of Health has called for increased awareness efforts, including through state television and media, and stated that with the help of the Iranian Red Crescent, volunteer groups will engage in activities in cities and villages. Last year, Ali Akbar Siari, Iran's Deputy Minister of Health, reported the possibility of '85,000 people' in Iran being infected with the AIDS virus. This figure, which has been referenced in previous statements by Mr. Sadaqat, is separate from the official statistics, which are about one-third of the estimates. In this context, the spread of AIDS among Iranian women has 'accelerated.'
Iran's Health and Science Ministries Launch Campaigns Against AIDS
Iran's Health Ministry is launching campaigns to combat the rising rates of AIDS, particularly among women and younger populations. The Ministry has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Science to promote education and awareness in universities. This is significant as it highlights the increasing public health challenge posed by HIV/AIDS in Iran.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Iran's Health and Science Ministries have launched campaigns to combat the rising rates of AIDS, particularly focusing on education and awareness in universities. The initiative comes in response to alarming trends in HIV infections, especially among women and younger populations.
- 28,000 people in Iran are currently reported to be infected with HIV, with estimates suggesting up to 85,000 may be infected.
- The increase in infections is attributed to drug use and unprotected sexual relations, particularly among individuals aged 25 to 35.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
HIV/AIDS has been a persistent public health issue globally since its emergence in the 1980s, and Iran has seen a rise in infections, particularly among women and youth. Understanding the dynamics of drug use and sexual health is crucial in addressing this epidemic.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%