7,500 Children Living with HIV in Pakistan
News Desk
Islamabad: The growing number of HIV-infected children in Pakistan has raised concerns over their nutritional needs, with health authorities planning special support measures to improve treatment outcomes.
According to data from the Federal Ministry of Health, around 7,500 children are currently living with HIV in the country, accounting for nearly 12 percent of the 62,000 HIV patients receiving treatment.
Sindh has emerged as the most affected province, with around 4,200 HIV-infected children registered, making it the largest concentration of pediatric HIV cases in Pakistan.
To address health challenges faced by these children, the federal government has approached international organizations, including UNICEF, the World Food Programme (WFP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and Nutrition International, seeking assistance for nutritional support.
Under the proposed plan, children suffering from severe malnutrition will receive specialized dietary supplements along with regular medical monitoring. Parents and caregivers will also be trained on meeting the nutritional requirements of children living with HIV.
Health experts say HIV-positive children need 10 to 20 percent more energy and protein compared to other children due to the impact of the virus on their bodies. They believe improving nutrition can significantly enhance treatment effectiveness and overall health outcomes.
The development comes as authorities continue efforts to strengthen HIV prevention, testing, and treatment programs across the country.
