WHO reports progress and setbacks in fight against HIV, hepatitis, and STIs

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a report detailing both advancements and setbacks in the global fight against HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Presented at the International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro, the findings highlight a complex picture of progress and ongoing challenges.

Significant strides have been made against HIV. By the end of 2025, approximately 32 million people were receiving treatment, and since 2010, new infections have fallen by 42%, with related deaths decreasing by 57%. However, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned that these gains are fragile. Funding disruptions, humanitarian emergencies, and persistent inequalities threaten to reverse progress, leaving nine million individuals with HIV without vital treatment.

Viral hepatitis continues to be a deadly global health issue, claiming 1.3 million lives in 2024. Deaths associated with hepatitis B have notably increased by 17% since 2015. Meanwhile, STIs are on the rise in several countries, compounded by growing antibiotic resistance, particularly for gonorrhea.

The WHO report identifies the integration of services as a key strategy to accelerate progress. Innovations like the injectable lenacapavir for HIV prevention, recommended twice yearly and already being introduced in 10 countries, and post-exposure prophylaxis with doxycycline for bacterial STIs are highlighted. Dr. Tereza Kasaeva, Director of WHO's Department of HIV, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis and STIs, described the report as a practical guide for action towards the 2030 elimination goals.

In Panama, the Ministry of Health reports that over 22,000 people are living with HIV, underscoring the disease's status as a major health challenge for the nation.