Knowledge is power. This adage continues to prove true throughout the centuries, and when it comes to AIDS and HIV, education can literally save lives.
India, where right now 61% of HIV cases in India are men, recently reported an incredible 57% reduction rate in HIV rates, according to a new UNAIDS report. (This may come as a surprise since its neighboring countries, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, have reported rising HIV rates.)
One doctor from Moolchand Heart Hospital in New Delhi states that one large reason why these rates are going down is because of increased awareness among Indians. As accurate information spreads across different levels of society, people are more adequately able to protect themselves.
Another professional, the AIDS Control Society of India president, shares his opinion: “The media has a pivotal role to play in the fight against AIDS. It is often said that education is the vaccine against HIV.” Social media, television programs, and Internet access in rural areas also play a positive role in helping others gain useful information on HIV and AIDS.
In addition, anti-retroviral therapy (ART) is making headway for those who have access to the drugs. By 2011, 40-59% of eligible Indians received ART therapy drugs.
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