Latest news with #AIDS
NDTV
5 hours ago
- Health
- NDTV
Mother-To-Child HIV Transmission Declined By 84% From 2010-2024: Minister
New Delhi: The number of vertical (mother-to-child) transmission of HIV has declined by around 84 per cent said Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, in the Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session. In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Ms Patel shared several steps taken by the government to enhance HIV/AIDS awareness. "Vertical transmission rate has also declined by around 74.5 per cent between 2010 and 2024 compared to around 56.5 per cent globally in the same reference period," Ms Patel said. Ms Patel noted that National Aids Control Organisation (NACO), a division of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, undertakes the responsibility to strengthen the awareness campaign against HIV/AIDs, through comprehensive multimedia campaigns, such as with information kiosks, and folk performances, among others. Digital platforms and social media are also actively leveraged to ensure broader engagement and awareness generation, especially among younger and tech-savvy audiences. Further, NACO rolled out 1,619 projects nationwide to support high-risk HIV populations. "High-risk groups, including female sex workers (FSW), men having sex with Men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), hijra/transgender (TG) individuals, truck drivers, and migrants are specifically addressed through 1,619 targeted intervention projects across the country," Ms Patel said. Self-help groups, anganwadi workers, ASHAs, and members of Panchayati Raj institutions provide training and sensitisation programmes at the grassroots level, fostering community-level awareness and behavioural change.
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Updated HIV guidelines from WHO promote prevention and lower barriers to care
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced new guidelines for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention and management that will reshape the global HIV response. According to WHO, HIV, a virus that attacks the immune system, has resulted in 44.1 million deaths worldwide and has infected a further 40.8 million people who live with the virus today. If left without treatment, the virus eventually causes severe damage to the immune system and can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There is no cure for HIV, but highly effective treatments can slow or stop the virus from replicating, allowing infected individuals to fight other infections. New medications offer an alternative to daily antiretroviral treatment (ART) and come in the form of long-acting injectables, which are administered twice per year. On 14 July 2025, WHO broadened the use of these injectables to be administered as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) - a recommendation that will change the epidemiology of HIV if instituted. Long-acting injectable PrEP, which only needs to be administered twice per year, will transform the HIV landscape. People who face challenges with daily adherence to their current PrEP treatments, stigmatised groups and those who lack consistent access to healthcare will have a new, safe, effective option to prevent HIV infection. Also, as part of the new guidelines, HIV testing has been simplified, broadening the availability of both long-acting injectable PrEP and the traditional daily PrEP by removing barriers. By enabling community-based delivery of long-acting PrEP through pharmacies, clinics and telehealth services, the WHO hopes to dramatically increase the proportion of at-risk individuals who have easy, affordable access to prevention services. Broader access to PrEP worldwide will result in fewer new HIV infections in the future. GlobalData epidemiologists monitor incident cases of HIV in the seven major pharmaceutical markets (7MM: France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, the UK and the US) and have already forecasted a slight decrease in the annual number of new cases, from almost 59,000 new cases in 2023 to 56,000 in 2033. With broader access to PrEP across the 7MM, it is reasonable to expect a more notable decrease in annual new cases, especially in at-risk groups who are already candidates for daily PrEP. These averted HIV infections will translate to fewer overall HIV cases, which has a compounding effect. Fewer HIV cases in the community equals less overall risk of infection, even for those who are not protected by PrEP. The new WHO recommendations come at a particularly uncertain time for global health funding. This suggests that while the technology to decrease the number of new cases — and thus the number of people who will need daily, lifelong treatment — is available, the political will to ensure this decrease occurs may be lacking. New PrEP options recommended by WHO will need to be backed with funding to implement at scale in communities most affected by HIV/AIDS in order to deliver on the expected decrease in annual new cases. If achieved, this prevention will pay dividends. Fewer new infections will have a ripple effect across the long-term health of communities, improve economic productivity, decrease community instability and promote human rights globally. "Updated HIV guidelines from WHO promote prevention and lower barriers to care" was originally created and published by Clinical Trials Arena, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Hans India
7 hours ago
- Business
- Hans India
Innomotics India launches CSR program to support aspiring children
Mumbai: Innomotics India Pvt. Ltd., part of the German-based Innomotics GmbH, a globally leading supplier of electric motors and large drive systems, recently launched their CSR Program in India. The program was developed on the framework of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and focuses on the key pillars of Education and Sustainability. The goal is to support economically disadvantaged communities by enabling children to have access to quality education, health and care. The core of the education program is the creation of the Innomotics INGenius Scholarship Program. This scholarship program serves as a gateway for exceptional students to embark on a journey of knowledge and skill development in the fields of engineering and technology. The INGenius program covers the tuition, accommodation, and essential academic expenses like books, internet as well as stationery items of selected students based on their academic achievements in the 10th and 12th standards, their aspirations and social backgrounds. With 12 children selected for this fiscal year, the scholarship program also includes internships, soft skills training and equipping students with the necessary tools to thrive in their future careers. As part of its education initiative, Innomotics also provides support to government-funded schools, focusing on infrastructure development and vocational training. The social pillar has partnered with two non-profit organisations – Sangopita – A Shelter for Care and Desire Society – Caring for Special Children. Sangopita supports children who are physically, mentally and sensory impaired and many of them are autistic. The children need a lifetime of care. Desire Society supports children with an objective of health development and the well-being of children living with HIV/AIDS (CLHAs). Over 120 children are part of the NGO's programs. Apart from financial aid, Innomotics India's CSR initiative supports these children by career counselling, preparing for exams, teaching and hosting special events. One such special event was the visit to the Nehru Science Planetarium.
Korea Herald
13 hours ago
- General
- Korea Herald
From sponsored child to World Vision Korea chief
Cho Myung-hwan reflects on journey of hardship, perseverance and paying it forward World Vision Korea President Cho Myung-hwan fixes his bow tie ahead of an interview at The Korea Herald's office in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on July 7. (Im Se-jun / The Korea Herald) For much of his career, Cho Myung-hwan, president of international humanitarian NGO World Vision Korea, stayed quiet about two facts from his early life: that he was once a sponsored child, and that he struggled in school. An emeritus professor at Konkuk University and a long-respected authority in HIV/AIDS research, Cho first shared both publicly at age 60, during a lecture attended by some 3,000 people. 'I wanted to tell how someone without exceptional talent could work hard, earn a Ph.D., and help others,' he said in a recent interview with The Korea Herald. Now leading one of the world's largest aid organizations, Cho sees his life as living proof that even a small act of kindness — a modest donation or a few words of encouragement — can change the course of a child's future. "Sponsorship brings happiness to both the giver and the receiver," he said. "It can change one child's life and in turn, the world. I'm living proof." Sponsored child, unremarkable student Cho's is not a story of innate brilliance or rare opportunity, but of the quiet, powerful transformation that can happen when a child is told they matter. He was fortunate to have someone who did exactly that: Edna, his American sponsor, whom he affectionately calls his 'other mother.' From infancy, she sent powdered milk, toys, letters, and $15 a month. But more than anything, it was her unwavering encouragement that shaped his path. Even after the sponsorship officially ended at age 18, she continued writing and donating until her passing in 2001. 'She always asked in her letters what my dream was. When I replied that I wanted to be a firefighter, or a baseball player, when I was into baseball, she would write back, 'You'll be the best firefighter, the best baseball player in the world.'' Cho grew up in poverty, with his father having fled south during the Korean War. 'I still remember how I envied classmates for the sausage in their lunchboxes.' Though poverty often made hope feel like a luxury, Edna's support gave him something else. 'She let me grow without shame,' he said. 'She helped me believe that I have future.' Still, Cho said, he was an unremarkable student throughout school. When it came time to apply for university, a friend of his father who was then a professor at Konkuk University suggested he consider microbial engineering, a department that sometimes had unfilled seats. "He told me biotechnology would shape the future," despite it being an unpopular major at that time, Cho recalled. Cho said his journey to becoming a professor was, again, driven by sheer persistence. After completing his undergraduate studies at Konkuk University in Seoul, he went to the United States for graduate school, only to struggle with poor grades and eventually be expelled. It was an extremely difficult period, and having nowhere to go, he even studied on park benches, he recalled. Then, a professor introduced him to Charles Sterling at the University of Arizona, who accepted him into a Ph.D. program in HIV/AIDS research. Cho earned his doctorate and returned to Korea, later joining the faculty at his alma mater, Konkuk University. Calling himself the 'last-place Ph.D.,' he said that he just never gave up. At 49, Cho paused his academic career to study public policy at Harvard Kennedy School. 'I realized science alone wasn't enough,' he said. 'To help more people, you need policy, you need business.' Over the years, he served twice as president of the AIDS Society of Asia and the Pacific and worked on global health and development projects. World Vision delivers emergency supplies at an earthquake-stricken site in Republic of Haiti. (World Vision) Cho assumed his current role at World Vision in 2021. Founded in 1950 during the Korean War to support war orphans and widows by Korean pastor Han Kyung-jik and American journalist-pastor Bob Pierce, World Vision has grown into the world's largest international NGO, operating in about 100 countries. With an annual budget of approximately 4.2 trillion won ($3.09 billion), it has helped more than 200 million children over 75 years. Over the years, South Korea has also undergone transformation, from one of the world's poorest countries to now the 12th-largest economy and from aid recipient to "donor nation." "Now is the time to show the world a warmer, more compassionate Korea. World Vision aims to be part of that journey," Cho said. World Vision Korea recently expanded its focus to address the growing impact of climate change on vulnerable children. 'Climate change affects everyone, but for children in fragile regions, it's a matter of survival,' said Cho. 'While wealthier communities can adapt, children in poor areas suffer first and worst.' One example is the Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration initiative to restore forests in Ethiopia. The project reforests degraded land, improves ecosystems, and helps communities build climate resilience — while offering carbon offset opportunities for global partners. The organization is also embracing new approaches to fundraising. On June 1, World Vision became the first NGO in Korea to accept cryptocurrency donations, partnering with Dunamu, the operator of the digital asset exchange Upbit. The group received 0.55 ether ($1,430) from a donor and sold it. Earlier this year, it received over 5 bitcoin and nearly 1 ether through the platform — equivalent to roughly 670 million won. Upbit matched up to 300 million won in donations. Looking ahead, the organization plans to experiment with fractionalizing artworks into NFTs, enabling donors to support causes by purchasing small digital shares. A child in Republic of Haiti smiles at a temporary shelter provided by World Vision. (World Vision) 'Dream until your dream comes true' Cho believes every life is precious and that no one is born without a purpose. "There was a time I felt useless," he said. "Poverty made me think I had no role in this world. But Edna's support helped me dream — and that brought me to where I am today." Now at World Vision, Cho sees his work as a way to finally give back the love and support he received from Edna and extend it to as many children as possible. 'Even helping just one more child live a better life, it matters.' "Sponsorship can help children live with joy and hope. I know, because I was one of them," he said. As the organization marks its 75th anniversary, Cho said the ultimate goal remains simple, yet bold: To create a world where organizations like World Vision are no longer needed. 'Our vision,' he said, 'is sponsorship that ends sponsorship.' rachelyj0213@
Time of India
19 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Home-based health care service launched for elderly in Sikar dist
Jaipur: Health department launched a home-based medical care programme for bed-ridden elderly patients needing palliative care and those with chronic illnesses, including cancer patients in Sikar Tuesday. Public health director, Dr Ravi Prakash Sharma said that last week, this service had covered 10 districts but rest of them will be covered in next seven days. Pain and suffering will get reduced when doctors will directly reach patient's residence. Currently, department is registering names of patients requiring home care services. Teams have equipped dedicated vehicles, and fortnightly visits will be conducted at thier homes to monitor their health status and provide necessary medical and nursing care. Additionally, family members will get trained about patient care techniques. "Institute-based palliative care is already being provided where a patient needs to be taken to a hospital but under community-based care, healthcare team reaches patients' house" said Dr Nirmala Sharma, state nodal officer of this initiative. "National Palliative Care Program is a mobile unit equipped with medical devices which will provide compassionate, loving and pain-relieving medical services to patients with incurable diseases at their homes. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Up to 70% off | Shop Sale Libas Undo It will support patients suffering from cancer, stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, AIDS, chronic respiratory diseases, and more. Goal is not only to treat but also to control symptoms and improve quality of life. Trained doctors, nursing staff, and health workers will be a part of this team" said Dr Maharia. "Aim of this care unit is to ensure that remaining days of patient's lives are spent well and not filled with pain. Yerterday, Maru Prakash Palliative Care Unit was officially launched" said Dr Ashok Maharia, chief medical health officer (CMHO), Sikar.
