New Delhi: While there is a little hope for HIV/AIDS people, 59 per cent of Indian population are living with misconception that there is a cure for AIDS, according to a new study released by the M-A-C AIDS Fund revealed.

79 percent of Indians understand that AIDS is always fatal, but 59 percent wrongly believe that there is a cure available for it.

“Indians rank HIV/AIDS as the most serious health problems facing their country, leading the next perceived issue (cancer) by 51 percentage points,” the survey said.

Indian cites the lack of access to information on HIV/AIDS vis-a-vis how it is contracted, as the major reason for spread of the virus. The stigma and humiliation associated with AIDS are also believed to be major barriers to stemming the epidemic.

More Indian nationals than in any other country surveyed are uncomfortable with intimate interactions with the HIV positive. Gender roles and the corresponding absence of discussions on safe sex with a partner are seen as contributors to the spread of HIV.

John Demsey, chairman, M-A AIDS Fund, said, “The survey results illustrate the urgent need for public access to information on HIV and AIDS in India.”

“We need to do some serious on-the-ground work to alleviate the sense of shame and stigma that surrounds the disease, and prevents people from being safe or seeking treatment,” he added.

HIV/AIDS was ranked as the most serious health problem than other diseases.