The Chief Medical Director of Lifeline Hospital, Ilorin, Dr Ayodele Ogunkeyede, has offered free tests and organized campaigns to sensitize people on the need to know their HIV/AIDS status. While commemorating the World AIDS Day in Kwara state on Saturday, Ogunkeyede told newsmen in Ilorin that it is necessary for private hospitals in Nigeria to complement government efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the country.
He explained that World AIDS day is a key opportunity to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS, commemorate those who have lost their lives and celebrate victories such as increased access to treatment and preventive services.
The medical expert noted that about thirty-seven-point-five million people are living with the disease globally, adding, however, that there is no adequate data to show current figure for people living with HIV/AIDS in the country.
Ogunkeyede observed that people are afraid to get tested because of the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS and warned that the number of carriers in the country is steadily increasing. While warning that those with the condition and who remained silent are in danger of dying, he however assured that with quick medical intervention, people with the condition could live for many years.
The medical practitioner therefore appealed to government at all levels to do more on the fight against HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
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