Speaking at the inaugural function of the programme titled 'Knowledge for action now' at the State Youth Hostel, Khuman Lampak here today, Dr Pramodkumar informed that the current rate of HIV prevalence among the women in Manipur is an alarming 35 percent as against 17 percent 10 years back.
Out of the test conducted on every 100 pregnant women in Manipur, 1.3 percent of them are detected as confirmed cases of HIV.
This shows that the mode of HIV transmission in Manipur is becoming more through sexual route, Dr Pramodkumar, who was the functional president, said, adding that in fact HIV transmission among injecting drug users (IDUs) which used to be the major cause of concerned has come down to a large extent.
With increased number of HIV transmission through sexual route, the number of HIV positive women and children has been on the rise.
At present, there are an estimated 8000 women living with HIV in Manipur, Dr Pramodkumar disclosed.
The programme which would continue for two days is being organized jointly by Centre for Human Progress, Prodigals' Home, Kripa Foundation, Care Foundation and Galaxy Club.
The programme is sponsored by UNAIDS.
Member of Manipur Human Rights Commission Ng Nongyai was the chief guest of the inaugural function which was also attend- ed by Deputy Director of Social Welfare Department Sanajaoba as guest of honor.
In his address as the chief guest, Ng Nongyai observed that the issue of HIV/AIDS in Manipur is one of the most serious issues that the Government ought to give priority in tackling it.
There are nearly 30,000 unreported cases of HIV infection in Manipur and the problem is likely to be more serious on account of Manipur being a border State as well as in the light of various other issues including coming of the trans- Asian highway.
So there is an urgent need to finalize a legislation to control HIV in the State, Nongyai opined.
Youth from Nagaland and Manipur are participating in the programme which aims to impart thorough knowledge on various issues related to HIV, health care and Human rights.
As part of the programme, an exhibition displaying various products like garments and eatables made by HIV positive women as well as showcasing of photographs and other arts is also being organized.
via The Sangai Express
Photo courtesy : Adam Ferguson's Photos
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