AIDS continues to be a serious public health concern, spreading silently, but can be effectively controlled through awareness, said Dr. Anuradha, Joint Director, Telangana SARC.

She inaugurated the AIDS Awareness Walk organized by Kamineni Hospitals on World AIDS Day, attended by around 300 participants, including doctors, students, nursing staff, and the public, carrying informative placards on HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Srikrishna Raghavendra highlighted that India has 24 lakh HIV-positive individuals, including 1.4 lakh in Telangana. He urged anyone with symptoms like persistent weakness, fever, or fatigue to get tested and reassured that a positive result is not a cause for panic.

The ART Centre at Kamineni provides free antiretroviral therapy under government guidelines, serving over 1,200 registered patients with daily follow-ups and awareness programs.

Dr. M Swami and Dr. Anjaiah Kanusali emphasized that discrimination against HIV-positive individuals must end, and prevention through safe practices and regular treatment is essential for all.