Every year on December 1, the National AIDS Trust recognizes World AIDS Day to raise awareness, show support for people living with HIV/AIDS, commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness, and unite in the fight against the virus. World AIDS Day is important because we must constantly remind each other that HIV has not gone away - there is still a need to increase awareness, fight prejudice and stigma, and improve education.
According to the National AIDS Trust, World AIDS Day was founded in 1988 and is the first-ever global health day. Each year, World AIDS Day has a different theme highlighting different aspects of the virus and society; in the past, these themes have been related to testing and knowing your HIV status, HIV prevention, discrimination, and access to health care.
This year’s theme is “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV.” It encourages people to unite globally and eliminate the disparities and inequities that create barriers to HIV testing, prevention, and access to HIV care.
What can I do this World AIDS Day?
There are many events occurring nationally for World AIDS Day. If interested, you can check out the link here: https://www.worldaidsday.org/events/#events. There are some events that are held online.
Additionally, the website includes a memorial space where you can create a tribute to a loved one: https://www.worldaidsday.org/memorials/.
You can also get tested. Getting tested is the only way to find out if you have HIV. If you or someone you know is living with HIV, starting treatment early means you can live a full, healthy, and productive life. Most HIV tests are available for free or at a reduced cost. Ask your healthcare provider or find a testing site near you through CDC’s HIV prevention services locator.
And you can check out some of our incredible graphic narratives on the experience of HIV/AIDS:
World AIDS Day may only be once a year, but the other 364 days of the year are as important in the fight against HIV/AIDS. We must always combat inequalities and stigma. Share information for awareness and educational purposes. Volunteer at local agencies that may need help. Continue to help in the fight against HIV so we can live in a world where HIV is a thing of the past.
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