Filiz Besim's Statement on HIV: Fear of Exposure Drives People to Southern Cyprus

Republican Turkish Party (CTP) Deputy Filiz Besim stated in her remarks regarding HIV cases in the Lefke and Güzelyurt regions that health problems are not yet over and that individuals choose Southern Cyprus to have their tests done out of concern about being exposed.

HIV Cases in the Regions

Republican Turkish Party (CTP) Deputy Filiz Besim made important evaluations after the discussions on HIV cases brought up in Lefke were also reflected in Güzelyurt.

Besim emphasized that the health problems experienced in the region have not yet disappeared and that the issue must be handled with sensitivity.

Reason for Applying to Southern Cyprus

Stating that many individuals harboring concerns about being exposed avoid applying to the Ministry of Health, Besim noted that these individuals go to Southern Cyprus to have their examinations performed.

Sensitivity and Confidentiality

Reminding that she was the first to bring up the issue of HIV in Parliament, Besim expressed that such health issues should not be discussed publicly.

She stated that examinations can be carried out without giving names to individuals and outside anyone's knowledge, and that health rules require this.

Treatment Processes and Information

She conveyed that healthcare workers have been following individuals determined to carry the HIV virus for a long time and that necessary medical treatment can be administered.

Emphasizing that not every person carrying the HIV virus will develop AIDS, Besim drew attention to the fact that the disease is treatable.

Criticisms Directed at the Ministry

Stating that the mismanagement of fear and confidentiality regarding HIV could lead to greater dangers, Besim argued that the Ministry of Health has failed to implement the necessary procedures in the region where the cases were observed.