📈 Sri Lanka Reports Record HIV Diagnoses; Expert Calls for Proactive Measures

Sri Lanka recorded 860 new HIV diagnoses over the past year—the highest annual count since 1987—up from 824 officially reported cases in 2024. While overall adult HIV prevalence remains low at under 0.1%, the rising trajectory signals changing transmission dynamics that require immediate public health focus. • Key Epidemiological Data • 860 new cases reported over the past year vs. 824 cases in 2024. • Men account for the overwhelming majority of new diagnoses, with male-to-female ratios exceeding 6:1 (and approaching 7:1 in some reports). • National adult HIV prevalence remains < 0.1%, compared to higher regional rates in Thailand (1.0%), Myanmar (0.9%), and Cambodia (0.5%). • Contributing Factors • Enhanced testing and screening identifying previously undetected cases. • Gaps in comprehensive sexual health education and awareness. • Increased global connectivity (tourism, labor migration) and high-risk network dynamics. • Persistent social stigma discouraging early testing and treatment. • Recommended Action Plan • Expand accessible testing and normalize prevention tools like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) alongside condom promotion. • Strengthen targeted surveillance, data transparency, and molecular research for key populations. • Address broader sexually transmitted viral diseases, including expanding HPV vaccination to prevent related cancers. • Promote evidence-based public health strategies grounded in science, dignity, and stigma reduction.