English

Abstract

BACKGROUND: An integrated counseling and testing centre is a place where a person is counseled and tested for HIV, on his own free will or as advised by a medical provider. The main functions of an ICTC include: Early detection of HIV, Provision of basic information on modes of transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS for promoting behavioral change and reducing vulnerability, link people with other HIV prevention, care and treatment services. OBJECTIVES: To estimate the basic Clients statistics of ICTC in Rajarajeswari Medical College & Hospital for the year 2013. MATERIAL & METHODS: This study is based on the Record review & Inter - viewing of Patients attending ICTC in Rajarajeswari Medical College & Hospital in Bangalore. Statistical test includes univariate analysis & chi - square test. RESULTS: This study depicts the role of ICTC - Integrated Counseling & Testing Centre& its Implementation in a Medical College under Public Private Partnership. The brief details of Clients attending ICTC are reflected here. Among the total patients (7855) in a year, referred to ICTC, 1.3% (100) are HIV Positive. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that Sexual mode of Transmission & Lower Socio - economic Status, Agriculturists, predominate among HIV Positives. HIV Prevalence higher than the national average was also recorded in the states of Andhra Pradesh (0.59%), Karnataka (0.53%), Maharashtra (0.40%) and Tamil Nadu (0.36%). 4 A decreasing trend is also evident in HIV prevalence among the young population of 15-24 years. The estimated number of new annual HIV infections has declined by more than 50% over the past decade. According to Michel Sidibe, Executive Director of UNAIDS, India's success comes from using an evidence-informed and human rights-based approach that is backed by sustained political leadership and civil society engagement. India must now strive to achieve universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support. 5