Men identified as part of high-risk populations for HIV in Rivers State have raised concerns over inadequate access to complete treatment and drugs at some health facilities, citing discrimination based on their sexual orientation.
This issue comes in the wake of the 2024 HIV prevalence report, which indicates that Rivers State has the highest number of people living with HIV in Nigeria, with a total of 208,767 recorded cases.
Speaking anonymously to our correspondent, Racheal Ramson, one of the men living with HIV explained that they often receive assistance primarily from Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) rather than government health services. He called on health workers to uphold medical ethics by providing non-judgmental, stigma-free care to all individuals, ensuring equitable access to HIV drugs and treatment.
The respondent also expressed concern over the declining funding and supply of essential preventive tools, such as contraceptives and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which are critical in reducing HIV transmission, especially among high-risk groups. Advocacy for improved healthcare services and support for vulnerable populations remains a pressing issue amid the rising HIV prevalence in the state.
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