The Department of Health in the Caraga Region (DOH-13) bared that 1,967 HIV cases have been recorded in the area from 1995 to February of this year.
“The DOH-13 continues its campaign to encourage individuals to undergo HIV testing,” said Arlene Serrano, the TB/HIV Program Coordinator of DOH-13, during a press conference on Wednesday afternoon here.
Serrano emphasized that only through testing can individuals infected with HIV receive appropriate medical interventions from the DOH.
Of the total number, the highest concentration of HIV infections in the region is observed among individuals within the age bracket of 25 to 34, accounting for 967 cases. This is closely followed by the 15 to 24 age group, with 684 cases.
HIV infections among individuals aged 35 to 49 recorded 271 cases, while those aged 50 and above had 39 cases, and individuals below 15 years old had six cases.
Across the region’s provinces, most HIV infections are recorded in Agusan del Sur (341), Surigao del Sur (261), Surigao del Norte (166), Agusan del Norte (134), and Dinagat Islands (37), with one case classified as unknown. Among the cities, the highest numbers are in Butuan City (486), Surigao City (252), Tandag City (82), Bislig City (76), Bayugan City (74), and Cabadbaran City (57).
“At present, the region has dedicated HIV hubs that will cater not only to treatment but also to comprehensive HIV testing services,” Serrano said.
Two of these HIV hubs are located in Butuan City, three in Agusan del Sur, two in Surigao del Sur, and another two in Surigao del Norte. (PNA)
