The number of people infected with HIV-AIDS in Albania is increasing from year to year. Official data speak of 113 new cases throughout the year 2023. The majority of those affected continue to be men.

According to experts, early diagnosis is very important in the course of HIV infection and the success of antiretroviral treatment.

On World HIV-AIDS Day, the global concern remains stigma, as a result of which infected people present themselves late. One of the young people living with HIV in Albania appeals to those who suspect the disease not to be afraid but to seek help.

“At first I couldn’t accept it, but then I started to adapt and every month I come to the infectious disease outpatient clinic and receive a free therapy. Today, I tell all my peers if you have HIV-AIDS, do not be afraid, nor ashamed, but treat it and save your life,” he said.

The World Health Organization declares that every day, 1,700 people with HIV-AIDS lose their lives while 3,500 become infected. Experts say that some do not know. In Albania there are 15 centers where the HIV test is performed. The global objective against HIV-AIDS is to identify 95% of cases and include them in the treatment scheme.