Mangaluru
The incidents of HIV and AIDS in young men due to MSM (Men who have Sex with Men) is on the rise. From January to August 2023, 500 youths have turned positive for the disease.
Once upon a time, AIDS was more prevalent in truck drivers, sex workers, migrant labourers, who have crossed the age of 25 years. Now it has increased in young men in the age group of 18 to 25 years.
A counsellor said that young men are turning homosexual after coming in contact with other young men through dating apps. This is more dangerous than heterosexuality.
In Dakshina Kannada, 130 new HIV/AIDS cases are identified from January to August 17, 2023. Out of this, 17 are MSM cases. In August month itself, five cases are found in young men within 17 days. These are statistics provided by Government Hospitals. If private hospital cases are taken into account, the tally will soar further.
Out of the 17 infected people found in Dakshina Kannada, one is native of Tamil Nadu and all others are from Dakshina Kannada district. One is resident of a hostel. There are students studying MBBS, Pharma and Engineering also. Doctors say that mostly the educated boys are falling victim to MSM.Some young men are arriving for treatment to skin and venereal diseases. During more examination in ICTC, AIDS is detected. Counsellors say that they do not do drugs or take alcohol. They usually sport one stud on the right ear and put polish on only one nail.
