World AIDS Day is recognized every year on December 1st as a way to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS. It is a day dedicated to spreading awareness, honoring lives lost, and supporting those living with HIV. First celebrated in 1988, it was the first International Health Day.

World AIDS Day makes the HIV/AIDS pandemic known, which still affects millions of people globally. An estimated 39.9 million people were predicted to be HIV positive in 2023, and 630,000 people died from HIV-related causes (HIV, 2024). The most severe form of the infection, AIDS, can develop from HIV if the immune system is not strengthened with appropriate treatment.

On World AIDS Day, there is an opportunity to enhance understanding about prevention, push for better healthcare access for AIDS sufferers, and fight the stigma associated with the disease.

 Ways to Publicize:

• Wear a Red Ribbon: This shows support for individuals battling AIDS as well as for those who have lost their lives to the disease.

• Fundraising: By holding fundraising events, organizations can raise much-needed money for AIDS research, preventative programs, and assistance for afflicted individuals.

• Getting Tested: You may encourage people to learn their status, which is crucial for treatment and early intervention.

• Alerting the Public: This can eliminate stigma, inform people about HIV prevention, and promote open conversation about the need for safe practice and testing.

World AIDS Day reminds us that everyone can contribute to a future free of stigma and barriers associated with AIDS. By drawing attention, we can create a world where people with AIDS receive the respect and care they deserve. Together, we can ensure that AIDS is no longer a barrier to living a full, healthy life.

Resources for further information

• HIV. (2024, July 22). https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/themes/hiv-aids
• https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids
• https://worldaidsday.org/
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiv-aids/symptoms-causes/syc-20373524
• https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/hiv-treatment-basics
• https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/starting-hiv-care/find-a-provider/locate-a-hiv-care-provider
• https://aliveness.org/