As a senior HIV consultant, I had the privilege of being invited as a faculty speaker at the National HIV Congress, held from March 21st to 23rd at Taj Lands End, Mumbai.
The HIV Congress is a prestigious, periodical medical conclave that brings together practitioners deeply engaged in the field of HIV/AIDS. Organized every two years in various cities across India, it consistently attracts both nationally and internationally acclaimed doctors. Over time, it has evolved into a rich platform for sharing expertise, clinical experiences, and best practices. It also plays a crucial role in fostering awareness, supporting scientific research, and building a comprehensive support system for the entire medical fraternity and patients alike. What made this year’s Congress particularly special for me was the opportunity to speak on a topic close to my heart- “Tenofovir-Induced Osteomalacia.” I presented the case of one of my patients from Rajasthan, who had been on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for many years. While her HIV infection was well-controlled, she began to suffer from severe muscle weakness and bone pain due to hypophosphatemia, a rare side effect of Tenofovir, one of the drugs in her ART regimen.
Unfortunately, this adverse effect remained undiagnosed for a long time, and she eventually became wheelchair-bound. After identifying the issue, we started her on phosphate supplements and transitioned her to a non-Tenofovir-based ART regimen. Over the next six months, she made a full recovery.
It was fulfilling to share her journey at the Congress and to emphasize the importance of holistic HIV care—one that looks beyond just viral suppression. I was also deeply moved to see the
participation of NGOs, who are doing commendable work in supporting patients and fighting the stigma associated with HIV.
Organized by the HIV Welfare Society, the Congress continues to be a beacon of knowledge, collaboration, and compassionate care in the field of HIV/AIDS. I’m honored to have been a part
of it.
