World AIDS Day takes place on December 1st of every year. The day advocates for the support of people living with HIV and solidarity to unite in the fight against HIV. December 1st is also an important day for remembering those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Globally, there are about 38 million people who have HIV. The virus was only identified in 1984 but more than 35 million people died from HIV or AIDS-related illnesses. Thus, world AIDS day is an important date to honor those who lost their lives through education and awareness.
HIV and AIDS: What is it?
HIV is a virus transferred through the exchange of bodily fluid. The virus attacks the immune system, weakening a person’s ability to fight infections and diseases (HIV Gov). HIV is preventable and, if someone does have it, treatable through new advances in medicine; however, if left untreated, HIV can develop into AIDS (HIV Gov). AIDS is the aftermath of HIV once HIV has badly damaged the immune system. Without a proper immune system, people can fall victim to various diseases that could potentially lead to death. However, it is important to remember that HIV is preventable with the use of condoms and other barrier contraceptives (HIV Gov).
Currently, there are ways to prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS. To prevent getting HIV, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a prevention method used by people who are at high risk for being exposed to HIV. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is an antiretroviral drug for people who are HIV-negative after they had a single high-risk exposure to stop the HIV infection. For more information on both medications, please speak to your healthcare provider.
Regardless, it is important to take time on December 1st to commemorate those who have lost their lives to HIV or AIDS. Through education and awareness, we can prevent the loss of lives. Educating and raising awareness, we are helping reduce the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS. Without stigma, people will be able to ask for help and resources about HIV or AIDS. Be sure to check out the resources below for more information regarding World AIDS Day, HIV/AIDS, or treatment options.
Resources and References:Â
https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/clinicians/prevention/prep-and-pep.html
https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/data-and-trends/statistics
