DAGUPAN CITY (PIA) — As cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) continue to rise in Pangasinan, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) is urging residents to prioritize early HIV testing to ensure long-term health and curb the spread of the virus.
HIV cases surge in Pangasinan
HIV compromises the immune system by targeting white blood cells, leaving the body vulnerable to infections.
Pangasinan PHO has reported a significant increase in HIV cases, particularly among those aged 25 to 34.
Provincial Health Education Promotion Officer (HEPO) Junalen Cabangon said that as of Jan. 8, 2025, there are 302 confirmed cases in the province—285 women and 17 men.
“This is a 68 percent increase from our last data, from 2019, which recorded 180 cases,” Cabangon added.
She said that the upward trend requires urgent early testing and preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus.
Meanwhile, the PHO is working with the Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health Development (CHD) 1 to consolidate HIV figures of other age brackets to come up with an efficient strategy to combat its spread.
Early testing as life-saving measure
Timely detection of HIV is crucial for effective management. While some individuals may experience flu-like symptoms within two to four weeks of infection, others remain asymptomatic for years.
While there is no cure for HIV at the moment, Cabangon said that it can be managed effectively through antiretroviral therapy (ART), which reduces the virus in the blood and keeps the immune system functioning.
“The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. Knowing your status will provide you with information to help keep you [and your partner] healthy,” Cabangon said.
To support this effort, the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) in Dagupan City offers free HIV testing and treatment services. Results are provided promptly, and positive tests undergo a confirmatory process.
Those interested in HIV testing and treatment can visit R1MC on Arellano Street in Dagupan City.
Understanding and preventing HIV
Cabangon said that HIV primarily spreads through unprotected sexual contact, sharing syringes, or breastfeeding.
“HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva. The virus is primarily spread through body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and rectal fluid (anal discharge),” she said, affirming that contact like kissing or sharing of utensils does not transmit HIV.
She further highlighted male-to-male sexual contact as the leading cause of new infections and underscored the consistent use of condoms as a critical preventive measure. Avoiding shared injection equipment and refraining from breastfeeding if HIV-positive is also key strategies.
Breaking the stigma around HIV
The PHO is actively raising awareness through forums, school campaigns, and radio programs. Its message is clear: HIV is a manageable medical condition, not a source of shame.
The PHO conducts its campaign through these platforms:
- Educational Forums – PHO holds community, school, and workplace forums to clear up misconceptions and share accurate HIV information.
- Radio Programs – PHO teams up with media outlets and government agencies to discuss important HIV facts on air or online.
- Social Media Engagement – PHO shares HIV facts through infographics on Facebook, reaching youth and encouraging open discussions. For updates, follow https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069068474967.
Cabangon emphasized the importance of understanding and preventing the virus from progressing to the more severe stage — the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a disease that weakens the immune system and makes the carrier more vulnerable to infections and certain cancers.
She encouraged those who notice symptoms to get tested and reminded those who are HIV-positive not to neglect their treatment.
She also appeals to the public not to discriminate against those living with HIV, as they deserve compassion and support just like anyone else.
By fostering understanding and inclusion, Pangasinan aims to create a stigma-free environment where individuals can seek the care they need without fear.
Together, the community can ensure a healthier future and better outcomes for those affected by HIV. (CCMT/JCDR, PIA Pangasinan)
