Rising Meth/ICE Addiction, Homosexuality & the HIV Epidemic in Pakistan

The use of drugs like Methamphetamine (commonly known as Meth) and Crystal (ICE) is becoming increasingly common among the youth in Pakistan. These drugs can be ingested through various methods, including swallowing, snorting, smoking, or injecting, and they produce intense euphoria, heightened energy levels and sexual appetite. Their accessibility and affordability have contributed significantly to their widespread use, particularly among elite and middle-class youth population. Unfortunately, the consumption of controlled substances such as Meth and Ice for immoral purposes is prevalent in LGBTQ+ community, sex workers, and promiscuous individuals. An investigative journalist, Waqar Bhatti, has recently covered this issue extensively in his stories citing it a major factor contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS in Pakistan: Meth–related HIV/ AIDS epidemic | Political Economy | thenews.com.pk. According to the 2022 Global HIV Statistics by UNAIDS, Pakistan is experiencing one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the region, with an 84 percent increase in new infections since 2010. In 2022, it was estimated that over 222,000 people were living with HIV (PLHIV) in Pakistan, compared to 66,000 in 2010. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for comprehensive efforts to address drug abuse issues and combat the increasing incidence of HIV/AIDS in Pakistan. It is imperative that both government and civil society work together to raise awareness, provide support and concrete health policies to prevent the further spread of HIV/AIDS in the country. To discuss this issue grave issue in detail, an interview was held on 15th September 2023 at 11:00am with Waqar Bhatti, special correspondent (health & environment), Jang Group.