Taboo plagues sufferers of HIV/AIDS across the world, but the issue is especially severe in Pakistan. People living with HIV/AIDS in Pakistan face numerous challenges, including stigma and discrimination, limited access to healthcare services, and a lack of awareness and education about the disease. In response to these challenges, IHP has introduced life-saving treatments for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Organizations working to address HIV often encounter significant resistance from local conservative elements, and Pakistan is no exception. Stigma, misinformation, and cultural taboos surrounding the disease create complex challenges that hinder progress and perpetuate suffering for those affected. However, we refused to let these barriers define its mission. Recognizing the critical need for intervention, IHP developed an inclusive program to combat HIV in Pakistan.
The most pressing issue identified was a significant medical deficit. While HIV has become a manageable chronic condition globally, the situation in Pakistan remained dire due to inadequate access to treatment and care. Research consistently shows that timely and proper treatment significantly improves life expectancy for those living with HIV. At the core of IHP's efforts was the introduction of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), a groundbreaking treatment that has revolutionized HIV care worldwide. ART suppresses viral replication, reducing the viral load in a patient's body to sub-dangerous levels. This not only prevents the progression of HIV to AIDS but also significantly reduces the risk of transmission, making ART an essential tool in reducing stigma and ensuring better health outcomes.
In addition to ART, IHP introduced Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to Pakistan for the first time. PrEP is a preventive medication designed for individuals at high risk of contracting HIV, such as partners of HIV-positive individuals, intravenous drug users, and other vulnerable groups. By integrating both ART and PrEP into local healthcare systems, IHP established a comprehensive approach to HIV care that emphasizes both treatment and prevention.
To ensure maximum reach and impact, IHP collaborated with public and private partners to roll out ART and PrEP through pilot programs in four hospitals in high-risk regions. These programs were designed with a focus on affordability and accessibility, ensuring that even low-income individuals could access life-saving treatments.
While introducing advanced treatments was a critical first step, IHP recognized that systemic and societal barriers also needed to be addressed. One of the biggest challenges was the reluctance of healthcare providers to treat HIV-positive patients due to pervasive stigma and fear. To overcome this, IHP launched an extensive training program for doctors and healthcare workers. This program has educated over 10,000 medical graduates across Pakistan, equipping them with the medical expertise and cultural sensitivity needed to provide compassionate care. These efforts have reached every province, ensuring that healthcare professionals nationwide are better prepared to address the needs of HIV-positive patients.
IHP aims to make ART and PrEP treatments readily available in all major cities across Pakistan. Beyond providing treatment, the organization is collaborating with government agencies to secure greater research funding for HIV/AIDS initiatives.
IHP: Impacting Lives, Changing Communities. Driving positive change through community
development and social justice.
At the dawn of the new millennium, one of our founders envisioned a Pakistan that would stand tall as a beacon of hope and progress in Asia. Slowly, this vision turned into a reality as other like-minded individuals joined forces for the same cause. Educated at some of the most prestigious universities, we aimed to utilise our skills in service to our nation.
Our extensive network of over 1,000 volunteer Pakistanis spans the globe, from the heart of Silicon Valley to various other prominent locations. These individuals include researchers, engineers, doctors, lawmakers, lawyers, and more. Through this diverse network, we tap into a wealth of global expertise and best practices. In conjunction with this network, our dedicated research team continually evaluates data and relevant information available online, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of innovation and excellence.
We believe that meaningful change requires focused and sustained effort. Our philosophy is that national transformation can only occur through persistent dedication. Hence, we limit ourselves to four Projects or Initiatives for Prosperity (IPs) at any given time. We remain steadfast and do not shift our focus until we observe tangible impact across every corner of Pakistan.