Sikkim media sensitized on HIV, AIDS

GANGTOK, 03 Feb: A sensitization workshop for media on HIV/ AIDS was organized by the Sikkim State AIDS Control Society [SSACS] here at Gangtok. The programme was organized in order to garner support from the media in disseminating information and spreading awareness regarding HIV AIDS at the grass roots level.
Addressing the programme, Joint Director of ICTC under SSACS, Dr. KT Lepcha, said that the role of media in disseminating information at the grassroots level is very important and should be a continuous process.
Media can work as a bridge between SSACS and the people at the grass root level so media sensitization is extremely important, he stressed. Disseminating information and motivating readers are some things that can be done by the media, added Dr Lepcha.
Project Director of SSACS, Dr. Uttam Pradhan informed about the various safety measures to prevent HIV infections. He also highlighted through presentation the present scenario of AIDS patients in Sikkim.
Dr Pradhan said that every month one or two cases of infection are reported which, although not alarming, is an issue of serious concern.
Among the high risk groups are female sex workers, injecting drug users and homosexuals. Incidence of HIV AIDS is greater in rural areas [57%] than urban areas [43%] while it is higher among males than females, he informed.
The cumulative figures since 1995 of people living with HIV AIDS till the end of 20 January is 298, informed Dr Pradhan.
Consultant, Youth Affairs of SSACS, Chung Chung Bhutia, urged the media to volunteer for blood tests and also to inform people regarding voluntary blood testing and other preventive measures.