Role of Yoga in Improving Quality of Life among HIV/AIDS Patients in Tripura, India

Abstract

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continues to be a major global public health challenges, affecting physical, psychological, and social well-being. In Tripura, the HIV prevalence rate is around 0.37%, higher than the national average of 0.20%. Certain high-risk groups, however, exhibit significantly higher rates. Unlike other regions where HIV transmission patterns differ, Tripura’s epidemic shows low levels in the general population but higher rates among specific high-risk groups. The main transmission modes include commercial sex work, heterosexual intercourse, injecting drug use, and unprotected anal sex among men who have sex with men. HIV prevalence varies across districts, with some areas matching the national average while others exceed 1%. In recent years, Tripura has implemented targeted HIV prevention strategies, leading to a decline in infection rates across both low- and high-risk groups. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly improved life expectancy, individuals living with HIV/AIDS often experience chronic stress, immune dysfunction, fatigue, and mental health issues. Yoga, a traditional mind–body practice, has emerged as an effective complementary therapy in managing these complications.