A new data provided by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) revealed a significant decline in the number of people who have refused an HIV treatment in the state over the last five years.
The information was released as a reply to a right to information act filed by healthcare activist Tushar Bhosale.
According to the data, there has been a reduction of 83% in dropout rates, with only 137 HIV-positive individuals in Maharashtra choosing not to receive treatment in the last five years. Out of these, 34 were from Mumbai. The majority of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the state are still receiving treatment, as per the RTI response.
The data also shows a steady decline in dropout numbers over the last five years: 1,012 dropouts were recorded in 2017–18, while the number reduced to 874 in 2018-19, 605 in 2019-20, 227 in 2020-21, and 171 in 2021-22. Furthermore, the data showed 103 dropouts from April to October 2022.
Health experts attribute the decline in dropout rates to adequate follow-up, counselling, and the availability of medications with fewer adverse effects. The state has been making efforts to improve the adherence to treatment, which has led to this positive outcome.
The health authorities are also doing well in terms of tracking and counselling, however, few people do not adhere to treatment and the only thing we can do is make them understand, officials added.
The decline in dropout rates is a positive step towards ensuring better health outcomes for PLHIV in Maharashtra. It is essential to continue efforts to maintain and improve HIV treatment adherence in the state. The data serves as a reminder of the importance of access to proper healthcare and support for PLHIV.
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