Alarming rise in AIDS cases reported in KP

Peshawar (Web Desk): A concerning increase in HIV/AIDS cases has been reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where 481 new infections were recorded during the first four months of 2026.

According to the provincial Health Department, the rising number of cases has raised serious concerns among medical experts, who describe the situation as a major public health challenge.

The Director of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa AIDS Control Program, Dr. Tariq Hayat, stated that after the latest additions, the total number of people living with HIV in the province has reached 10,281, compared to 9,800 last year.

Official data shows that among the affected individuals, 7,178 are men, 2,381 are women, and 235 are transgender persons. Additionally, 487 children under the age of 15 are also affected, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Health experts have warned that although treatment facilities are available, strengthening public awareness, preventive measures, and early diagnosis is crucial to controlling the spread of the disease.