World AIDS/HIV Day 2023

World AIDS/HIV Day 2023
Today, December 1st, marks World AIDS Day 2023 - a global event held annually to show support for those living with HIV and commemorate those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. The theme this year is “Equalize: Work Together to End Inequalities". This theme aims to address the inequalities preventing progress in ending AIDS.

History of World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day was first conceived in August 1987 by public health officials at a summit in London. It was established to raise awareness about the alarming spread of HIV/AIDS around the world. By 1988, many governments and UN agencies backed the concept, and World AIDS Day was first observed on December 1st, 1988. Since 1995, the President of the United States has made an official proclamation for each World AIDS Day.

Over the past three decades, World AIDS Day has played a pivotal role in highlighting issues key affected groups face. It provides an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV/AIDS. It promotes the need for support and access to treatment for all people living with HIV.

Facts and Figures
HIV/AIDS remains one of the world’s most serious public health issues, but increased awareness and access to care are now saving millions of lives:

An estimated 38.4 million people now live with HIV globally.

In 2021, around 1.5 million people acquired HIV, highlighting that the disease remains a persistent threat.

Thanks to the impact of antiretroviral therapy and increased support, AIDS-related deaths have been reduced by 50% since 2010.

However, challenges and inequalities driving the HIV/AIDS epidemics around the world persist:

Over 650,000 people died from AIDS-related illnesses in 2021.

Almost 11.7 million people living with HIV globally do not know they have the virus. Getting tested is key for access to treatment.

Only 28 million people had access to antiretroviral therapy as of March 2022. Many more worldwide need these life-saving medicines.

This World AIDS Day, get the facts, show your support, and join in helping end inequalities surrounding HIV/AIDS. Educate yourself and others about prevention, testing, access to treatment, stigma, and the reality of living with HIV. Working together, we can end AIDS.