HIV/AIDS

The number of HIV-positive people in Cambodia has fallen over the past year, according to a joint statement by the National AIDS Authority and NGO groups on Wednesday. As of this month, 57,900 Cambodians between the ages of 15 and 49 are registered as living with the virus – a drop of about 1,000 compared with last year’s figure, officials said Wednesday. “The figure has decreased by roughly 1,000 from last year,” said Dr Hor Bunleng, deputy general secretary of the National AIDS Authority. “Nonetheless, we have to continue strengthening the fight against HIV/AIDS infection,” he continued. The statement released by the National Aids Authority went on to urge all relevant institutions to protect and support HIV/AIDS patients. “People who contracted the virus must receive medical treatment, food and encouragement. They should not be discriminated against,” the statement read. “We always try to help them. We have never been careless with them or let them feel lonely. We always keep in touch and take care of their physical and psychological well-being,” Hor Bun Leng added.