The cases of HIV in the country are alarmingly increasing; awareness and action are urgently needed.

In an alarming context, the Ministry of Health (Minsa) has revealed concerning statistics about the progression of HIV in the country. So far in 2024, 1,536 new cases have been recorded, raising the total to 28,388 people living with this disease. These figures highlight the urgent need for greater awareness and education regarding HIV, as well as a renewed focus on prevention and treatment. According to data provided by Dr. Carlos Chávez, head of the STI/HIV/AIDS section at Minsa, the profile of the epidemic is primarily centered on men, who represent 77.5% of new cases, while women constitute 22.5%. This gender disparity underscores the importance of directing specific efforts toward prevention campaigns that are inclusive and culturally sensitive. The most affected regions include Panama Metro, which reports 426 new cases, followed by the Gnäbe Buglé region with 258. Other areas of concern are Panama Oeste, Chiriquí, and San Miguelito, where significant rates have also been recorded. This geographical distribution suggests that education and prevention efforts need to be tailored and focused on the most vulnerable communities. The demographic profile of affected individuals is also concerning: cases are concentrated in individuals aged 15 to 44, with a notable peak of 40% in the 20 to 29 age group. This trend emphasizes the need to implement educational programs targeting youth, promoting responsible sexual practices and the use of protection methods, such as condoms. Dr. Chávez also points out that the stigma associated with HIV continues to be a significant barrier to early detection and access to treatment. Many individuals belonging to more vulnerable groups, such as men who have sex with men, transgender people, and sex workers, face discrimination that prevents them from seeking appropriate medical care. In this regard, it is crucial that awareness campaigns not only address HIV but also the stigma surrounding it. Unfortunately, statistics reflect that mother-to-child transmission of HIV continues to occur, largely due to a lack of prenatal care. This situation is alarming, as it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that pregnant women receive the necessary care to prevent the transmission of the virus to their children. The lack of access to adequate prenatal care can have devastating consequences for future generations. Dr. Orlando Quintero, director of Probidsida, has reiterated that despite some advances in the early detection of HIV, the curve of new cases has yet to flatten. Although the percentage of patients diagnosed at advanced stages has decreased, there is still a long way to go. It is evident that while some individuals are getting tested preventively, a significant portion of the population continues to lack access to care. Quintero emphasizes the need for a proactive approach in prevention and sexual education campaigns. Each year, thousands of people continue to be diagnosed with HIV, and many of them infect others due to unprotected sexual relations. This cycle of transmission is concerning and requires immediate intervention. Although HIV-related deaths have decreased, from 600 to approximately 300, it remains unacceptable that these figures persist in a country where access to testing and treatment is free. This raises questions about the effectiveness of public health programs and the need to reinforce them with more robust educational campaigns and community awareness strategies. Finally, it is clear that the fight against HIV requires a joint effort between the government, non-governmental organizations, and the community at large. Only through education, understanding, and the elimination of stigma can significant progress be made in the prevention and treatment of HIV, thereby saving countless lives and strengthening society as a whole. Collaboration and commitment are essential in this cause, which undoubtedly remains one of the major public health priorities in the country.