AIDS Cases in Turkey Increase Fourfold in the Last 6 Years

Prof. Dr. Osman Köse, the Head of the Turkish Dermatology Association Venereology Working Group, made a statement today on World AIDS Day, December 1st. In his statement, Köse said:

"AIDS is known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome and is caused by a virus called HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). This virus leads to a deficiency in our body's defense system, making the patient more susceptible to various infections. AIDS is most commonly transmitted through unprotected and risky sexual contact, with multiple partners being a significant risk factor. The use of condoms during sexual intercourse is the most important preventive measure. The disease can also be transmitted through infected needles, during blood transfusions, and from mother to baby during childbirth.

"AIDS Does Not Spread through Casual Contact"

AIDS does not spread by touching or hugging an infected person. Moreover, the HIV virus does not transmit through tears, sweat, saliva, and similar secretions, as well as public facilities like pools, baths, and toilets. After the virus enters the body, symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, and, notably, skin disorders appear excessively. As the body's defense system weakens over time, various infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses become prevalent.

"Important Indicators for AIDS"

There is no specific sign of the HIV virus on the skin, but all skin diseases may manifest with more severe and widespread symptoms in cases of AIDS. Individuals who have other sexually transmitted diseases (genital warts, genital herpes, syphilis, chlamydia, etc.) and engage in a promiscuous sexual lifestyle are at a high risk of contracting AIDS.

"AIDS Cases Increasing Slowly Worldwide"

As of now, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO)/Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), around 39 million people worldwide were living with the HIV virus by the end of 2022. The rate of increase in AIDS worldwide is slowing down, and with new treatment methods, lifespans are extending. Although Turkey is currently one of the countries where HIV/AIDS is less common, according to research, if the current trend continues, there will be around 75,000 new HIV cases by 2030 and approximately 375,000 by 2040.

"AIDS Increased Fourfold in Turkey in the Last 6 Years; Immediate Action Needed"

AIDS has increased fourfold in Turkey in the last 6 years. If immediate action is not taken, it will increase by 113% by 2030, reaching a total of around 75,000 cases, posing a significant threat to public health. As of the end of 2021, according to official records of the Ministry of Health, a total of 32,376 people were identified as living with the HIV virus in Turkey. However, as the statistics for 2022 have not been published, the latest figures are unknown.

"Consult a Dermatologist Immediately and Get Tested"

The Turkish Dermatology Association reminds everyone on World AIDS Day to consult a dermatologist without delay in the case of non-healing wounds and when symptoms of skin diseases appear excessively. If there is a suspicious history, getting tested immediately is recommended."