This is in reference to the article “Traditional cure for AIDS, cancer at Agri Expo” published in your newspaper on March 30th 2006. It is disturbing that this report publishes and endorses a claim for a cure for HIV/AIDS. Such claims not scientifically validated or peer reviewed have the potential of causing great damage when placed on the public domain.
We are not in any way belittling or undermining indigenous remedies and alternative therapies. Numerous studies indicate that indigenous remedies have a decisive and positive impact on the morale and confidence of people living with HIV/AIDS, enhancing their coping abilities, decreasing levels of anxiety and lending them a degree of hope.
However at no point should they be made to feel or given the understanding that the therapy or remedy provides a cure for HIV/AIDS and as or in some extreme cases act even as a license to risky behaviour. This will amount to misleading and misinformation. All the HIV prevention messages that are targeting the general audience are as applicable to people living with HIV/AIDS.
Under these circumstances, it is important that the media consult health professionals or concerned specialists to verify this information and give equal prominence to the other side with equal emphasis. Given your role as a channel of communication that informs, enlightens people it is essential that the media does not encourage such claims.
We would also like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for the contribution your publication has made in highlighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Nagaland. Currently, Nagaland is battling with a growing epidemic in some districts even as we are working towards creating greater awareness of prevention and care facilities that are available. Our efforts need to be geared towards encouraging and building confidence amongst people to access these prevention and care services.
We look forward to your continued support.
Dr. B. Langkham,
Regional Director,
Emmanuel Hospital Association
