- Image generated with OpenAI via Vientiane Times.
VIENTIANE: The Lao government has set an ambitious goal to end the spread of HIV by 2030. However, challenges such as stigma, and limited awareness of life-changing concepts like Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U) among the general public remain significant hurdles.
HIV infections in Laos have risen slightly, with the rate in the general population increasing to 0.42 percent in 2024, up from 0.39 percent in 2023.
Between January and September this year, 1,523 people were identified as living with HIV, with over half aged between 15 and 29.
While prevention remains a priority, early treatment through antiretroviral therapy and a greater understanding of U=U have the potential to reduce stigma and improve the lives of people living with HIV.
This feature delves into the personal stories of these individuals, healthcare professionals, and advocates working tirelessly to break barriers and spread awareness in Laos.
A new chapter for people living with HIV
G, a resident of Savannakhet province, has been living with HIV since 2004.
Contracting the virus through unprotected sex, he experienced severe stigma that led him to isolate himself, causing his health to decline.
With the support of his family, G began antiretroviral therapy, which restored his health. In 2018, he learned about U=U, a concept that changed his outlook on life.
“Maintaining an undetectable viral load through consistent antiretroviral therapy for six months and having the viral load reduced to 200 copies/ml or less means I cannot transmit the virus to my sexual partners. This knowledge has allowed me to live more confidently,” G said.
However, G stressed the need for greater public understanding of U=U. “The more people learn about U=U, the less stigma people living with HIV will face,” he said..
Healthcare workers at the forefront
Healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in promoting awareness and supporting people with HIV.
Chief of the Management of HIV/AIDS and STI Unit, Dr Ketmala Banchongphanith, highlighted the importance of outreach programmes.
These include condom promotion, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for high-risk groups, and expanded access to HIV testing and treatment services.
Dr Ketmala emphasised that early treatment and adherence to antiretroviral therapy are key to achieving undetectable viral loads. “When the viral load is reduced to 200 copies/ml or less, HIV cannot be transmitted sexually. This is the essence of U=U,” she explained.
Advocacy and empowerment
An anonymous advocate from Vientiane, who works with the Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS (APL+), shared his journey of resilience.
Diagnosed in the 1990s while he was a migrant worker in a neighbouring country, he initially struggled with stigma and poor health.
However, after seeking treatment and gaining the support of his family, he found purpose in helping others through APL+.
“Many people living with HIV hide their status due to societal barriers such as discrimination in employment. Misinformation about HIV transmission and a lack of awareness about U=U are significant challenges. Most people infected with HIV know about U=U but most other people are not yet aware of this concept,” he said.
He believes that spreading accurate information about U=U is crucial to fostering acceptance and inclusion.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite progress, challenges such as stigma and misinformation persist. Fear of discrimination continues to prevent many people with HIV from disclosing their status, limiting their access to support and resources.
However, there are reasons for hope. The expansion of HIV testing and treatment services, including self-testing, is increasing accessibility nationwide.
Efforts to educate healthcare providers and the public about U=U are also gaining momentum.
The path forward
With 196 HIV testing facilities across 18 provinces and a growing network of treatment services, Laos is making strides toward its goal of ending HIV transmission by 2030.
This year’s World AIDS Day theme, “Take the Right Path: My Health, My Right”, underscores the importance of educating the public and empowering individuals to protect themselves and others.
By breaking barriers, spreading awareness of U=U, and reducing stigma, Laos can create a healthier, more inclusive society where people living with HIV can thrive without fear of discrimination. - Vientiane Times/ANN
