These worrying statistics, unveiled by the National Committee to Fight AIDS (CNLS) on World AIDS Day, highlight the scale of the health challenge in Cameroon.
In 2023, the Cameroon has recorded nearly 55,000 cases of people testing positive for HIV, including more than 15,000 pregnant women. These alarming data were made public by the National Committee to Fight AIDS (CNLS) on December 1, on the occasion of World AIDS Day.
With a national prevalence of 2.7%, according to the preliminary results of the ongoing CAMPHIA survey, HIV remains a major public health issue. Of the 2.6 million tests carried out this year, more than 800,000 pregnant women were consulted in health structures, 97% of whom received screening. However, 15,178 of them tested positive. This figure could be even higher if all pregnant women had access to prenatal consultations.
Dr Joseph Fokam, permanent secretary of the CNLS, emphasizes the dangers of this lack of coverage: “If a pregnant woman does not get tested, she risks transmitting the virus to her child. » This declaration underlines the urgency of improving access to care for this vulnerable group, often hampered by geographical, cultural or economic obstacles.
Despite these challenges, significant advances have been noted in the treatment of HIV. “More than 90% of patients on antiretroviral treatment show a good therapeutic response. An undetectable viral load means that the patient can no longer transmit the virus,” explains Dr Fokam. This reinforces the importance of early detection and rapid treatment of people living with HIV.
In terms of prevention, efforts were sustained in 2023. More than 28 million male condoms and one million female condoms were distributed across the country. In addition, 2,638,708 people were screened for HIV, resulting in 54,916 positive results.
However, these figures are a reminder of the extent of the efforts still necessary to stem the spread of the virus. The CNLS calls for strengthening awareness and promoting prevention strategies such as the use of condoms, fidelity, abstinence and regular screening.
The fight against HIV/AIDS in Cameroon remains a long-term battle, requiring the continued commitment of the authorities, international partners and civil society.
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