Kuwait City: Kuwaiti Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi has announced Kuwait’s significant progress in combating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), marking it as a leader in the Arab region, according to the Joint UN Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS). This statement was delivered by the Ministry’s Undersecretary Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi during the opening of the Kuwait National Conference for AIDS.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Kuwait has achieved the 90/90/90 indicator, where 90 percent of infected individuals are aware of their infection, 90 percent of diagnosed individuals are receiving treatment, and 90 percent of those on treatment have an undetectable viral load. Dr. Al-Awadhi emphasized Kuwait’s commitment to reaching the 95/95/95 target by 2025, aligning with the national plan for combating HIV/AIDS from 2023 to 2027.
The Ministry of Health is providing the latest global treatments for AIDS, including long-acting injections, and offers voluntary and confidential testing for HIV and sexually
transmitted diseases, along with counseling services. Director of the Ministry’s Health Department, Dr. Fahad Al-Ghimlas, highlighted the ministry’s achievements in offering care to 165 HIV-positive Kuwaiti patients and over 100 foreigners and residents.
Dr. Al-Ghimlas also noted that the 2023 National AIDS Statistical Report was submitted to the World Health Organization (WHO), and periodic reports are prepared for UNAIDS and WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean. Additionally, the ministry has issued over 2,000 HIV-free certificates through its public health labs.
Dr. Jamal Al-Duaij from Al-Jahra Health District stated that the conference provides an opportunity to discuss the latest developments in the diagnosis and treatment of venereal diseases and to foster cooperation among different sectors. The Infectious Diseases Hospital is committed to supporting scientific research and providing continuous education for healthcare professionals.
Chairman of the Conference Organizing Committee, Dr
. Osama Al-Baqsami, added that the conference aims to highlight advancements in HIV diagnosis and treatment, including innovations in antiviral treatments and effective prevention strategies that have proven successful worldwide.