World Aids Day: Fct Places 61,384 On Treatment

The Federal Capital Territory FCT has made significant strides in its fight against HIV/AIDS, with 61,384 people living with HIV PLHIV now receiving treatment. This achievement was announced by Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment Secretariat of the FCT Administration, during a press conference on the 2024 World AIDS Day, held in Abuja.

Dr. Fasawe emphasized that the number of people on HIV treatment in the FCT exceeds projections, representing 223 of the anticipated target. This figure includes individuals migrating from neighboring states, showcasing the region's comprehensive approach to HIV care.

Out of the total number, 1,048 3.8 are children receiving life-saving antiretroviral therapy ART. This underscores the FCT's commitment to addressing pediatric HIV, one of the key themes of this year's World AIDS Day, which was marked with the theme "Take the Right Path: Sustain HIV Response, Stop HIV Among Children."

The FCT, with an estimated population of 6.95 million, has a slightly higher HIV prevalence rate 1.4 compared to the national average of 1.3. Despite the challenges, FCT has made significant progress in its HIV response, particularly in expanding access to treatment and services.

Fasawe highlighted the expansion and strengthening of HIV services across the FCT. The health sector response has been reinforced with a network of 122 service delivery points offering antiretrovirals in all six Area Councils of the FCT. In addition, there are 285 conventional spoke sites and 37 unconventional sites, which provide decentralized community-based care. These efforts ensure that services are accessible even to the most remote populations.

The decentralized care model has been crucial in ensuring that no one is left behind, and that communities have access to quality care and support close to home. This approach is particularly important for reaching populations in hard-to-reach areas and ensuring equitable access to HIV treatment.

In addressing pediatric HIV, the FCT has implemented several targeted interventions. One such initiative is the deployment of mentor mothers, who serve as escorts for pregnant women, helping them navigate the care pathways. These mentor mothers are integral in guiding women through the complexities of HIV care, particularly in preventing mother-to-child transmission PMTCT.

Furthermore, traditional birth attendants have been trained on the importance of facility-based births, prophylaxis, and early infant diagnosis. Newborns are tested for HIV within 72 hours of birth to ensure early detection and treatment.

Community-driven initiatives, such as the Mothers Love Party and the AP3 Initiative, have been crucial in enhancing support for PMTCT programs. These programs are essential in reducing the transmission of HIV from mothers to children, and they focus on educating and empowering women, families, and communities.

The FCTA has also made strides in expanding access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis PrEP for HIV prevention. This initiative ensures that individuals at risk of HIV can take proactive steps to prevent infection, contributing to a broader strategy of comprehensive HIV prevention.

Dr. Fasawe emphasized that achieving these outcomes requires a collective effort from the government, healthcare providers, community leaders, and civil society organizations. The FCTs integrated approach to HIV care not only focuses on treatment but also on education, prevention, and the reduction of stigma, which are crucial components in the fight against the HIV epidemic.

The successful treatment of over 61,000 people living with HIV in the Federal Capital Territory is a testament to the region's commitment to improving HIV care and ensuring that people affected by the disease have access to life-saving treatment. With continued investment in prevention, education, and community-based care, the FCT is working towards reducing HIV transmission and improving the quality of life for those living with the virus. The expanded access to HIV services, coupled with the strong focus on pediatric HIV and the introduction of PrEP, positions the FCT as a leader in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.