Gulf | Oman
30% women among 902 HIV patients in Oman
The Sultanate joined the rest of the world on Wednesday in observing the World Aids Day, which focused on reducing the vulnerability of women and girls to Aids-related diseases.
- Staff Report
- Published: 00:00 December 3, 2004
Oman has 902 HIV/Aids patients, out of whom 30 per cent are women, according to Dr Ali Bin Mohammad Bin Mousa, Minister of Health.
He was speaking at a function held to mark the World Aids Day at the Hotel Crowne Plaza. The Sultanate joined the rest of the world on Wednesday in observing the World Aids Day, which focused on reducing the vulnerability of women and girls to Aids-related diseases.
Dr Sharifa Bint Khalfan Bin Nasser Al Yahya'eea, Oman's Minister of Social Development, said it was significant that a joint effort for preventing the spread of HIV/Aids has been given serious consideration in the country. She pointed out that the spread of the disease could be controlled and prevented through awareness campaigns.
Dr Mousa reiterated that Oman offers equal opportunities to men and women in the field of health and education. "Both genders have equal access to public awareness and health services regarding the disease."
"Scientifically, it has been proven that women are more vulnerable to Aids-related diseases than men," the minister pointed out.
An official said that the first case of HIV/Aids in Oman was reported in 1984, but the rate of infection has remained low. "This a still a negative sign and the carelessness towards HIV/Aids is worrisome," he reckons.
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