Wed Sep 18 04:23:46 UTC 2024: ## 5k Run in Vijayawada Raises Awareness About HIV/AIDS

**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh** – The Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) organized a 5k Run in Vijayawada on Tuesday as part of a larger campaign to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS in the state. The event saw participation from two men, two women, and two transgenders from each district, with the top finishers receiving cash prizes.

Dr. A Siri, project director of APSACS, emphasized the importance of promoting awareness, particularly among young adults. She stated that only 25% of young men and 38% of young women in Andhra Pradesh are aware of HIV/AIDS, highlighting the need for more comprehensive education.

Dr. Siri also underscored the different ways HIV can be transmitted, including from mother to child, through shared needles, and among drug users.

“We are working with the National AIDS Control Organisation (NAC) with the goal of achieving zero HIV/AIDS cases in the state by 2030,” said Dr. Siri. “Currently, there are around 10,000 infected individuals in Andhra Pradesh. We believe that through increased awareness and proactive measures, we can achieve this goal.”

The top finishers from the 5k Run will now compete at the national level 10k Run in Goa. The event was flagged off by Dr. Siri and Vijayawada DCP Gowtami Salini, showcasing the collaborative effort between government agencies and civil society organizations in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

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