Robyn Moore and Adam Duce explain the reasons behind World AIDS Day
Every year, on December 1st, World AIDS Day is celebrated internationally, with millions of people making a concerted effort to spread global awareness of living with AIDS. According to the charityÔÇÖs website, there are 90,000 people currently living with HIV in the UK, and globally an estimated 33.3 million people have the virus. ThatÔÇÖs half the population of the UK!
The charity also stresses the importance of educating people about the virus to reduce prejudice and stigmatisation, which are still prevalent in many parts of the world. One of the main concerns from the charity is that national governments and the general public are not being made aware of the need to continue raising money, awareness and education for AIDS sufferers and combating stigmatisation associated with the disease.
WhatÔÇÖs the difference between HIV and AIDS?
HIV stands for Human Immunode´¼üciency Virus, which attacks the immune system, breaking down the bodyÔÇÖs defences against diseases. It is easily contracted through infected bodily ´¼éuids, most commonly through unprotected sexual intercourse or by sharing infected needles or syringes. Unfortunately, there is no cure or vaccine for HIV as of yet, and that is why it is so important to highlight the risks associated with the virus.
HIV develops into AIDS or Acquired Immune De´¼üciency Syndrome in the ´¼ünal stage of the virus. If HIV infection is not detected or treated, it allows the virus to weaken the immune system, leading to the onset of AIDS. People with AIDS are very susceptible to opportunistic infections; however, treatment with Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART) is available and very effective. Although it isnÔÇÖt a cure, it enables people to live long and healthy lives, as well as pre- venting the spread of infection. Regular testing remains the key, as early treatment provides the best results ÔÇô a fact World AIDS Day can raise awareness of.
Facts and Figures
Between 1981 and 2007, more than 25 million people died from the virus, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in human history. The group most at risk of contracting HIV in the UK are men who have unprotected sex with other men. Other groups who are at an increased risk are those who inject and share needles and people who have had unprotected sex with anyone from South and South East Asia, Central America, Sub-Saharan Africa and partners of these people regardless of their sexuality.
An International Event
The ´¼ürst World AIDS Day was held in 1988 and hundreds of events are held internationally each year, ranging from seminar talks to music performances, the recognition of the virus and its placement within religion, art showcasing and more. People are encouraged to organise their own events, such as sponsored runs or cake sales, promoting the charity to local communities. You can also buy or sell red ribbons to show support for people living with HIV. If you are in the least bit unsure as to whether you have HIV ÔÇô get yourself tested at your local GUM clinic!
Useful Links
Cardiff GUM Clinic:
Cardiff Royal Infirmary, Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust, Department of Integrated Sexual Health, Newport Road, Cardiff, Wales, CF24 0SZ – 02920 335207/8
Terrence Higgins Trust:
www.tht.org.uk – 0808 802 1221