Health authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have raised concerns over the growing spread of HIV, revealing that the province may have as many as 40,000 people living with the virus.
Officials disclosed the figures on World AIDS Day, noting that between 15 and 20 new infections are being detected every single day.
During a press briefing at the Peshawar Press Club, Dr. Tariq Hayat Taj, who heads the Provincial AIDS Control Program, said that only about 9,800 patients are formally registered with the government. The actual number, however, is believed to be far higher because many individuals avoid getting tested due to fear of social backlash and discrimination.
“Stigma is one of our biggest challenges. A large number of people are reluctant to come forward for testing,” Dr. Tariq said, warning that this fear allows the virus to spread unnoticed in communities.
He identified unqualified healthcare workers, unlicensed clinics, and the repeated use of contaminated syringes as major drivers behind the rising infections.
He urged the Health Regulatory Authority to clamp down on illegal medical practices, stressing that HIV is treatable and that registered patients in the province receive free medication and long-term care. “Reusing infected syringes is a direct route for transmission,” he emphasized.
UN data indicates that K-P has roughly 40,000 HIV-positive individuals, while the nationwide total stands at an estimated 330,000, a situation officials describe as deeply concerning. During recent screening efforts at known hotspots such as Iqbal Plaza in Peshawar, 197 transgender persons tested positive. Dr. Tariq noted that all of them are now under treatment.
He further explained that HIV is transmitted through several channels, not only sexual contact. Shared needles, unsterilized tools at barbershops and beauty salons, and other unsafe procedures also pose serious risks.
“In our province, around 60% of known HIV cases are men, 30% are women, and 10% are transgender individuals,” he added. Injecting drug users remain the most vulnerable group, followed by transgender communities and sex workers. “The infection is no longer contained within high-risk groups; the general population is increasingly at risk.”
UNICEF health specialist Dr. Inamullah Khan appealed to the public to show compassion toward HIV patients. “These individuals deserve respect. Isolation and discrimination only add to their suffering,” he said.
Assistant Director of the HIV/AIDS Program, Abbas Durrani, pointed out that many Pakistanis returning from the Gulf and African countries are also testing positive. He advised overseas workers to avoid unsafe practices and adhere to moral and religious values to protect their health.
Officials concluded by urging people to prioritize early testing and prevention. “HIV requires lifelong treatment,” Dr. Tariq said. “It is essential for people to get screened before it is too late.”
