World AIDS Day, observed annually on 1 December since 1988, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the HIV/AIDS pandemic and to honor the millions of lives lost to the disease. This international day underscores the ongoing need for prevention, early detection, equitable access to treatment, and support for individuals living with HIV. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), remains a serious public health challenge, reinforcing the importance of continued education, advocacy, and global solidarity.
Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response
- In 2025, a major global funding crisis is threatening decades of progress in the HIV response, resulting in severe disruptions to essential HIV prevention services.
- Community-led initiatives—critical for reaching marginalized and high-risk populations—are being deprioritized, limiting their ability to deliver targeted and effective support.
- The rise in punitive laws criminalizing same-sex relationships, gender identity, and drug use is worsening the situation, creating additional barriers to accessing life-saving HIV services.
- The global AIDS response has experienced significant setbacks in recent months, underscoring the continued need for intensified action.
- Achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of ending AIDS by 2030 requires sustained commitment, strengthened systems, and equitable access to prevention, testing, and treatment.
- Given today’s complex and challenging environment, a renewed, transformative approach is essential to mitigate emerging risks and accelerate progress toward ending AIDS.
Need of AIDS Awareness
The observance of AIDS Awareness Day remains critically important, as HIV—while still incurable—can be effectively controlled through timely information, early diagnosis, and sustained treatment, particularly in rural and underserved communities. What was once an unmanageable and life-limiting condition has evolved into a controllable chronic illness, thanks to significant advancements in prevention, diagnostic technologies, antiretroviral therapy, and the management of opportunistic infections.
- In 2023, India recorded approximately 66,400 new HIV cases. Globally, 13 lakh individuals were newly infected in the same year—a notable 39% decline compared to 2010, when 21 lakh new infections were reported. This progress underscores the impact of continued awareness, access to care, and community engagement, while highlighting the need to sustain and strengthen these efforts.
Precaution that saves life
- Adopt safe sexual practices, minimizing high-risk partnerships, and undergoing routine HIV screening to facilitate early detection and timely intervention.
- Avoid sharing needles or invasive instruments, and ensure that all medical cosmetic, tattooing, and piercing procedures are performed with sterile, single-use equipment to prevent transmission.
- Utilize Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for sustained protection if at elevated risk, and initiate Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) within 72 hours following any potential exposure to significantly reduce infection likelihood.
- Pregnant women should receive antenatal HIV screening and adhere to prescribed antiretroviral therapy to effectively prevent mother-to-child transmission.
- Individuals diagnosed with HIV should maintain strict adherence to ART, supported by community awareness initiatives, reduced stigma, and regular clinical follow-up to suppress viral load and prevent onward transmission.
Stay Aware. Stay Protected
On World AIDS Day, the key message is clear: awareness, early testing, and consistent treatment are our strongest tools against HIV. By promoting safe practices, encouraging stigma-free conversations, and ensuring access to timely care, we can prevent new infections and support those living with HIV to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Ending AIDS is not just a medical goal—it is a collective responsibility built on knowledge, compassion, and action.
