How has HIV impacted Sameer's family over generations in Mumbai?

Sameer's family has lived with HIV for three generations, starting with his diagnosis in 1996, affecting parents and a son.

Why does Sameer's family keep their HIV status a secret?

Despite medical progress, severe stigma surrounding HIV forces Sameer and his wife to keep their status hidden from relatives.

What progress has Mumbai made against HIV/AIDS?

Mumbai has seen a 20% decrease in HIV/AIDS deaths and a 56% drop in new infections among pregnant women recently.

Home / Health / HIV: Three Generations, One Family's Secret Battle

HIV: Three Generations, One Family's Secret Battle

2 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Family has lived with HIV for three generations since 1996.
Stigma prevents the family from disclosing their status, even to relatives.
Mumbai sees significant drops in HIV deaths and new infections.

HIV: Three Generations, One Family's Secret Battle

In Mumbai, a family's life has been profoundly shaped by HIV over three generations, beginning with a diagnosis in 1996. Initially a shock, the virus's presence has continued through parents, a son, and potentially future generations, highlighting its long-term impact.

Despite significant medical progress that has shifted HIV from a terminal illness to a manageable condition, the pervasive stigma compels the family to conceal their status, even from close relatives. This secrecy underscores the deep-rooted social challenges that persist alongside medical advancements.

Meanwhile, Mumbai shows positive trends in combating HIV/AIDS. Data indicates a notable 20% reduction in deaths over the past four years and a substantial 56% decrease in new infections among pregnant women. These figures reflect broader successes in public health programs and treatment accessibility.