Modern medicine offers abundant opportunities to treat HIV infected patients & they can lead a normal life, said Dr. Morkar, Professor of Medicine at J N Medical College. Dr. Morkar was speaking as a moderator and panellists at a workshop organized by the Department of Medicine, J N Medical College of KLE Academy of Higher Education (KAHER) on the occasion of World AIDS Day.
Dr. Morkar presented that, over the past 35 years, there has been significant progress in addressing HIV and AIDS, thanks to advancements in medical research, increased access to treatment and prevention, and a broader understanding of the virus. Newer drugs and therapies have emerged in the recent past to treat HIV infection. Dr. Morkar emphasized that these advancements have not only reduced mortality rates drastically but have also enhanced the life expectancy of HIV patients while minimizing associated risks and infections. The objective of the workshop is to keep medical professionals abreast of the continuous developments in the field.
Dr. Morkar has done research at KLES Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital in the field of HIV and has published scientific articles in medical journals.
Dr. M S Ganachari, Registrar of KAHER, reflected in the past stigma associated with HIV and how medical professionals were once hesitant to interact with HIV patients due to fear.
Dr. V M Pattanshetti, the Vice Principal of J N Medical College, acknowledged the success in combating the HIV menace, assigned it to continuous research and the development of newer therapies. Col. M Dayananda, Medical Director of the Hospital, highlighted the significant reduction in the stigma associated with HIV patients, attributing it to the positive impact of modern medicine.
Dr. H B Rajsekhar, Director of USM-KLE International Medical Program, and Dr. V D Patil, Director of Hospital Development Projects, also shared their insights on the subject in the workshop. Dr. V A Kothiwale brought out the fact that such frequent interactions among the medical fraternity empowers physicians to handle complicated cases.
The participation of over 150 individuals in the workshop, along with the online broadcast to the Association of Physicians of India (Karnataka Chapter), indicates a significant interest and commitment from the medical community to stay informed about the latest developments in HIV treatment.
Dr. Priyanka Patil, the Organizing Secretary, extended vote of thanks, underscoring the collaborative efforts to disseminate crucial information and updates in the field of HIV treatment.
