KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) on National HIV Testing Day called for an urgent and coordinated nationwide response to expand confidential HIV testing, eliminate social and institutional stigma, and strengthen healthcare infrastructure to control the growing HIV crisis.
The PMA highlighted that more than 84,000 HIV cases are currently registered across the country, while experts estimate the actual number of undetected cases could be as high as 369,000. According to the association, around 14,000 new cases were reported in 2025.
The PMA expressed concern over the rise in infections among children and families due to poor infection control practices and unsafe injection procedures. In the first quarter of 2026, Sindh reported 894 new HIV cases, including 329 children. The association noted that annual pediatric HIV infections in Pakistan have increased from 530 cases in 2010 to more than 1,800.
PMA Secretary General Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro said that decisive action is needed at an institutional level as children and younger generations are increasingly affected by HIV.
The PMA urged federal and provincial health authorities to take immediate steps, including the provision of free and confidential rapid HIV diagnostic kits at all primary and secondary public healthcare facilities, launching awareness campaigns to remove social taboos, and improving training and protection for healthcare professionals.
The association also called for ensuring easy access to counseling, treatment, and modern prevention strategies for high-risk populations.
The PMA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for improved healthcare funding, transparency, and policies that safeguard patient dignity while supporting medical professionals.
