Around 5,00,000 children can die by AIDS by 2030 if the US stops Health Aid
A new lenset study estimates that about 5,00,000 children can die of AIDS -related diseases and can be infected with HIV by 1 million more by 2030, if papper funding is reduced or shut down.
A new study published in the lensate has increased serious concerns about the future of HIV/AIDS treatment in Africa if the US cuts its support through the Pepper program.
The Emergency Plan of the US President for Pepfar, or AIDS Relief, has been helping countries in sub-Sahara Africa Fight HIV/AIDS since 2003. It has already saved more than 26 million people and has helped 7.8 million infants from being born with HIV.
But experts now warn that without steady funding, most of this progress may lose.
The study estimates that about 5,00,000 children can die of AIDS -related diseases and can be infected with HIV by 1 million more by 2030 if papafar funding is reduced or closed. It also warns that 2.8 million children may be orphaned in the next five years.
Researchers say that the program has done more than fighting HIV only. It has strengthened the healthcare system, supported child health, and helped girls to protect them from sexual violence.
It has also improved trade and diplomatic relations between the US and African countries.
But recent political developments have thrown the future of the program uncertain. Recently, an American policy has frozen foreign aid, including Pepfar for 90 days, which has already disrupted services in many areas.
Experts behind the study are calling for a clear five -year plan to continue Pepfar support, while African countries help to take more control over their own HIV programs.
“If the support for Pepfar suddenly ends, we can see a huge spike in preventionable deaths and new infections,” said Oxford University Professor Lucy Clove, said, one of the authors. “This will undo 20 years of progress.”
His co-writer at Imperial College London, Susan Hilis, said that Peppar also gives money to other important services for children beyond HIV treatment, such as those who prevent violence and improve overall health.
The study has urged the US to continue investing in Pepfar and work with African governments for a smooth transition to the local leadership of these health programs.
African health officials said in a joint statement that they are committed to making their health systems strong and more independent.
But he also said that continuous international support is necessary for children and families to reach the target of abolishing HIV/AIDS as a threat.
