State sees worrying rise in HIV/AIDS cases

male-to-male sexual contact

routine HIV testing

Karnataka has witnessed a consistent rise in HIV/AIDS cases linked to(MSM) over the past three years, according to data released by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS).The number of active cases increased from 44,581 in 2023-24 to 62,664 in 2024-25 and further climbed to 66,606 in 2025-26.A notable increase has been recorded among younger age groups, particularly those aged 18-25 and 26-35. Cases in the 18-25 category rose from 3,732 in 2023-24 to 6,962 in 2024-25, before registering a slight decline to 6,283 in 2025-26. Among individuals aged 26-35, the number of cases reached 14,555 in 2025-26, up from 9,351 in 2023-24.HIV continues to be the most frequently reported sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the state, with 417 new cases reported so far this year.Health authorities have intensified awareness campaigns on safe sexual practices among same-sex partners. Officials said part of the increase has been linked to outbreaks reported in hostels. They also noted that transmission patterns have included men who had sexual relations with female sex workers and subsequently engaged in sexual contact with other men.To strengthen prevention and early detection, the government is encouraging people to use the BreakFree app, which offers risk assessment and guidance related to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.KSAPS is also conducting awareness campaigns through its network of 442 Red Ribbon Clubs (RRCs) across Karnataka, including more than 40 in Bengaluru. These clubs focus on educating young people about HIV/AIDS prevention, sexuality and healthy lifestyle practices.Support services are available through the 1097 helpline. Awareness programmes are also being organised in corporate workplaces, while testing camps lasting up to two months are being set up to improve screening and detection.Medical experts point to several factors contributing to the rise in cases. Increased use of dating applications and social networking platforms has made it easier for individuals to connect with partners, potentially leading to a higher number of sexual encounters. Inconsistent condom use, limited awareness about sexually transmitted infections beyond HIV and a reduced perception of risk are also considered significant factors.Among the most commonly reported sexually transmitted infections are HIV, syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Healthcare professionals have observed a significant increase in syphilis and gonorrhoea cases in recent years. Experts warn that untreated STIs can lead to serious health complications and may increase the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhoea has also become a growing concern, making treatment more difficult.Dr Manisha Singh, Additional Director – Gynaecologist and Sub-specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said the rise in HIV cases linked to male-to-male sexual contact underscores the need for stronger awareness, education and access to preventive healthcare services rather than attributing the increase to any particular community. She noted that HIV transmission occurs through specific high-risk exposures, including unprotected sexual contact, regardless of sexual orientation.According to Dr Singh, one of the major challenges is that many people avoid regular HIV testing because of social stigma or concerns about confidentiality. This can delay diagnosis and increase the likelihood of unknowingly transmitting the infection.Emphasising the need for a comprehensive approach, Dr Singh said consistent and correct condom use remains one of the most effective methods of preventing HIV transmission. She added that, early diagnosis, prompt initiation of antiretroviral therapy and greater awareness of preventive options such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) can significantly reduce new infections. Public health initiatives, she said, should focus on creating non-judgmental healthcare environments where individuals feel comfortable seeking testing, counselling and treatment.Dr Singh stressed that HIV is both preventable and manageable when detected early. She said increasing awareness, reducing stigma, encouraging routine screening and promoting safer sexual practices are critical to controlling the spread of HIV and improving public health outcomes.