KUWAIT CITY, Nov 28:  Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi emphasized that Kuwait has made remarkable strides in combating AIDS, ranking at the forefront of Arab and regional countries in addressing the epidemic. This achievement was highlighted in the 2022 UNAIDS report, which showed Kuwait’s success in meeting the 90/90/90 targets. These goals are to identify 90 percent of people living with HIV, ensure they are aware of their health status, and provide effective treatment to 90 percent of those diagnosed.

Speaking at the opening of the annual conference on AIDS and venereal diseases on Thursday, which will run for two days, Dr. Al-Awadhi, represented by the Ministry's Undersecretary Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, outlined Kuwait’s progress. He mentioned that the country is now focused on reaching the next target, the 95/95/95 goal by 2025, as part of the National AIDS Strategy 2023/2027.

The Minister explained that Kuwait is providing the latest global treatments for AIDS, including long-acting injections, and expanding voluntary testing and counseling services. A third clinic has recently been opened in the Ahmadi Health District to further these efforts. Dr. Al-Awadhi added that Kuwait is committed to improving the quality of life for people living with AIDS by ensuring psychological, social, and economic stability. The ministry is also working to enhance community protection through updated regulations that preserve the privacy and rights of individuals living with HIV.

Dr. Al-Awadhi stressed that addressing AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is not only a health issue but also a humanitarian and moral responsibility. He called for the active participation of all segments of society—starting from families and extending to educational and social institutions—to reduce stigma and provide accurate knowledge.

In his speech, Dr. Fahd Al-Ghamlas, Director of the Public Health Department, highlighted the Ministry’s achievements, including conducting an epidemiological investigation of 165 AIDS cases among Kuwaiti nationals. He also shared that over 100 positive cases among residents were dealt with, completing the necessary investigations and deportation procedures. Dr. Al-Ghamlas mentioned that the national AIDS report for 2023 had been submitted to the World Health Organization, further reflecting Kuwait’s commitment to transparency and providing accurate data.

Dr. Al-Ghamlas also noted the expansion of the Tatman Clinic, with a new location at the Fahaheel Health Center, marking the third such clinic after the Public Health Department and Infectious Diseases Hospital clinics. These clinics offer private and confidential HIV and STD testing and counseling. The department has issued over 2,000 certificates confirming individuals' HIV-free status, ensuring the reliability of its preventive tests.

Dr. Jamal Al-Duaij, Director of the Jahra Health District, emphasized the importance of the conference in staying updated on the latest scientific advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of STDs. He noted that the conference provides a valuable platform for dialogue, fostering cooperation among various health, social, and educational sectors.

Dr. Osama Al-Baqsami, Head of the Conference’s Organizing Committee, stated that the event aims to highlight the latest developments in diagnosing and treating HIV and STDs. The conference will include discussions on innovative diagnostic tests, antiviral treatments, and effective global prevention strategies. Dr. Al-Baqsami stressed that confronting these diseases requires the collective effort of society, not just the medical community. The conference also aims to send awareness messages and organize workshops for imams and educational specialists to promote a culture of prevention, especially among youth.

The conference promises to be a rich scientific platform contributing to public health protection and the continued progress of medical efforts to combat AIDS and STDs