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The report warns that HIV spreads via shared needles, unsafe injections and improper transfusions, posing a risk not just to youth but to people of all ages
Raising awareness among the elderly is crucial, and government-led campaigns are needed to promote regular HIV testing in this age group. (Representative/News18 Hindi)
A recent report published in The Lancet has raised alarms among health experts, highlighting a sharp rise in HIV cases among people aged 50 and above.
While HIV is commonly linked to sexual transmission and often perceived as a disease affecting younger individuals, the report stresses that the virus can spread through multiple routes, including shared needles, unsafe injections, and improper blood transfusions, making it a risk for people of all ages.
The study, published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity journal, reveals that HIV prevalence among older adults now surpasses that of younger individuals. Dr. Louiser Olubayo of the Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience notes that most awareness campaigns focus primarily on youth, leaving the older population overlooked. This age group often assumes they’re not at risk, a misconception deeply rooted in societal attitudes.
Preventing HIV among the elderly requires a proactive approach. First, it’s vital to recognise that HIV is entirely treatable, and early diagnosis greatly improves outcomes. However, older individuals are less likely to get tested, often resulting in delayed detection and limited access to timely treatment.
Experts recommend annual HIV testing, which is both affordable and widely available, typically costing less than Rs 100.
Raising awareness among the elderly is crucial, and government-led campaigns are needed to promote regular HIV testing in this age group. Encouraging safe sex practices and ensuring hygienic injection methods are also key to prevention. Seniors should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms like excessive sweating, tongue blisters, persistent fever, fatigue, weakness, sudden weight loss, or unexplained skin rashes.
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