In Cuba, 35,373 people live with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), a figure that remains stable thanks to the effectiveness of the national program, which reports a sustained reduction in both new infections and mortality from this cause.
This was recently reported by Dr. Jacqueline Sánchez Fuentes, head of the Ministry of Public Health's (Minsap) Strategy for the Control of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), who highlighted that the island has achieved good results in indicators that directly impact this health problem.
According to Prensa Latina, the official, who is also part of the STIs, HIV, and Hepatitis Prevention and Control Program, explained that this is reflected in the fact that the annual number of people diagnosed with the virus has decreased to 1,708, a 14.5% reduction, while the number of deaths has fallen to 114, representing a significant reduction of 39%.
These achievements are the result of the political will of the Cuban state and the strategies deployed by the National Health System, which prioritizes universal access to antiretroviral treatment and the strengthening of preventive efforts.
Currently, the Caribbean nation aims to achieve and maintain 95% coverage in diagnosis and treatment, as well as expand prophylaxis and combined prevention to cover key populations. These goals are part of the effort to reduce inequalities and eliminate the stigma and discrimination that still affect people living with the disease.
Cuba's progress contrasts with the complex global picture. According to estimates by the World Health Organization and UNAIDS, there are approximately 40.8 million people living with HIV worldwide, which is 27% more than in 2010. Each year, 1.3 million new cases are reported and nearly 630,000 people die from AIDS-related causes.
However, progress is also being made internationally, with 40% fewer new infections annually compared to 2010 and a 54% reduction in mortality.
In the Americas, where some 4.2 million people live with HIV, Cuba continues to work decisively to consolidate its positive indicators and provide quality care to its patients, reaffirming the principle that health is a right for all people.
