World AIDS Day 2022: What You Can Do

Since 1988, World AIDS Day (December 1) has been recognized as a time to remember people who have died of AIDS-related illnesses, support those currently living with HIV/AIDS, and work to end the epidemic. of HIV. Do you want to know more and what you can do to commemorate World AIDS Day? Keep reading!

What has changed when it comes to HIV/AIDS?

Let me back up a bit. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that damages the immune system. There are three stages of HIV; if left untreated, HIV can progress to its final stage, also known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS. However, this can often be prevented; HIV can be controlled with proper care and treatment, either Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) either antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Make no mistake, people with HIV who receive proper care and treatment can now live long and healthy lives, all while protecting their partner. How is this possible? Well, when prescription HIV medications are constantly taken, the amount of HIV in a person’s blood can drop to such a point that it can no longer be detected. And people whose HIV levels are undetectable cannot transmit HIV to their sexual partners. This can be summed up in one small phrase: “Undetectable = Untransmittable”, or more simply, “U = U”.

But while there have been advances in awareness, treatment, and testing, the HIV epidemic remains a serious problem for certain populations. Unfortunately, some people do not have the same access as others to the right information and resources.

putting us to the test

This year, the US theme for World AIDS Day is “Testing Ourselves: Achieving Equity to End HIV.” To truly end the HIV epidemic, there must be equal access to HIV testing, prevention, care and treatment.

Removing the barriers that prevent this is easier said than done. For example, some groups of people have less access to services as a result of many factors, including stigma and discrimination.

The National HIV/AIDS Strategy (2022-2025) has identified five populations who are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS:

• Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, particularly Black, Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Native men
• Black women
• Transgender women
• Young people from 13 to 24 years old
• People who inject drugs

With around 1.5 million new cases worldwide each year, removing these barriers and creating equitable access to HIV-related resources is more important than ever.

Why is it so important to get tested for HIV?

The other part of the topic is about getting tested for HIV, which allows you to make healthy choices for yourself and your partners. If you are sexually active, it is important to get tested regularly. And remember, condoms are the only contraceptive that protects against both unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections like HIV.

The only way to really know if you have HIV is to get tested!

What you can do

This year, reflect on the message of this year’s theme. Talk openly about HIV/AIDS and why we should be aware of it. Encourage those you know to get tested. Get tested! Our Clinic Finder (coming back soon) allows people to find health centers near them that offer HIV testing, often at little or no cost.

Let’s do what we can to achieve equitable access to HIV care and treatment, make HIV testing a normal part of our health care, and reduce stigma about HIV/AIDS.