MOUNTING PROBLEM

-- The Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic will pose many problems for Pakistan in the future, though as of now the number of recorded cases is not alarming. According to several non-governmental organisations, immediate actions needs to be taken by the government to educate people about the importance of safe sex and the dangers posed by intravenous drug abuse. The latest figures of the National AIDS Programme indicate that 1,699 AIDS cases have been added since 1986. But the UN estimates show that 74,000 people are suffering from AIDS and a vast majority of AIDS cases are not reported due to social taboos and fear of discrimination.