Prevalence and Recent Trends of HIV Infection in Faisalabad

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a serious public health issue in Pakistan, with concentrated epidemics in urban centers such as Faisalabad. Unsafe injection practices, unprotected sexual behaviors, and poor awareness continue to drive transmission.This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HIV infection among individuals screened in Faisalabad and to identify key demographic factors and probable reasons for infection.A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from [June,2025] to [July,2025] in Faisalabad. A total of 114 individuals were screened for HIV using rapid diagnostic kits, with positive results confirmed by ELISA. Demographic and behavioral data were collected through structured interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate prevalence, and associations were explored with chi-square tests.Of the 114 participants, 6 (5.3%) tested positive for HIV. All positive cases were adult males aged 23 years and above. The primary factors contributing to HIV infection included sharing of contaminated syringes among people who inject drugs (PWID), unprotected sexual contact, and unsafe medical procedures in informal healthcare settings. Lack of awareness and stigma were also significant barriers to early testing and prevention.This study highlights a concerning HIV prevalence among adult males in Faisalabad, linked to preventable risk behaviors and gaps in harm reduction. Strengthened community awareness, safer injection practices, expanded testing, and improved infection control in medical settings are urgently needed to curb further spread.

 Keywords:

HIV, Prevalence, Faisalabad, Injection Drug Use, Unsafe Sex, Pakistan, Public Health