2023-11-09 01:00:00
The Department of Disease Control recently revealed concerning statistics about HIV infection and sexually transmitted diseases, particularly among the youth population. Dr. Thongchai Keerati Hatthayakorn, Acting Director-General, stated that in 2022, there were an estimated 9,230 new cases of HIV, with nearly half of those being individuals between the ages of 15-24. Additionally, there were up to 14,534 cases of syphilis and gonorrhea reported.
Dr. Thongchai emphasized the importance of using condoms, stating that only 80% of youth reported using condoms during their last sexual encounter, and less than 40% used them regularly. To combat these alarming statistics, the Department of Disease Control is working in collaboration with network partners to encourage the use of condoms and promote safe sex practices. Condoms are available for free at state health service units and through civil society organizations nationwide.
The Department is also making efforts to increase access to HIV and syphilis screenings, with quick results available within 20 minutes. In 2023, the coverage for these screenings will be expanded to all 77 provinces in Thailand. Additionally, the Department is working with the National Health Security Office to implement HIV self-testing as part of the national health insurance system, allowing every Thai citizen to test themselves for HIV for free.
In an effort to make healthcare services more accessible to young people, especially in the era of 5G technology, the Department is working to develop online systems that will allow for convenient registration, consultation, and appointment scheduling. The goal is to provide comprehensive and quick care to reduce the incidence of HIV and sexually transmitted diseases among youth.
For more information on how to access these services, individuals can visit the facebook fanpage: buddystation or contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422 and the Division of AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Diseases at 02-5903217. With these efforts and resources in place, the Department of Disease Control is hopeful that they can make a significant impact on reducing the spread of HIV and sexually transmitted diseases among Thai youth.]
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