Epidemiological Evolution of HIV in Pakistan (1987-2026): From High-risk Populations to Emerging Pediatric Cases.

Authors

Akash John, Tallat Anwar Faridi, Neelam Iqbal

Published in

Current HIV/AIDS reports. Volume 23. Issue 1. Oct 20, 2026. Epub Oct 20, 2026.

Abstract

This narrative review examines the evolving epidemiology of HIV in Pakistan from 1987 to 2026, focusing on temporal trends among key populations, geographic hotspots, emerging pediatric infections, and health-system gaps affecting epidemic control.
Evidence indicates a persistent concentrated epidemic, with the highest burden among people who inject drugs and continuing transmission among sex workers, transgender populations, and prisoners. HIV transmission remains geographically heterogeneous, with major urban hotspots in Karachi and cities across Punjab. Recent pediatric outbreaks have introduced an important healthcare-associated dimension, with unsafe medical practices and weaknesses in infection prevention and control emerging as major concerns. Pakistan's HIV epidemic remains concentrated but is becoming increasingly complex. Persistent transmission among key populations, geographic expansion, pediatric infections, and substantial gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and viral suppression highlight the need for strengthened surveillance, prevention, infection control, and continuity of HIV care.

PMID:
42900303
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 21 Oct 2026.

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