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Every year on the 1st of December, the international community comes together to observe World AIDS Day. This globally recognized day aims to raise awareness about Acquired ImmunoDeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a pandemic disease caused by the infection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which severely damages the human immune system.
Origins and Motto of World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day was established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO). Remarkably, it was the first ever global health day, with a crucial objective of raising public knowledge and understanding about AIDS. The creation of this day marked an important step in battling the HIV and AIDS epidemic.
The Spread and Impact of HIV/AIDS
At the end of 2020, an estimated 37.7 million people were living with the HIV virus. A striking two-thirds, or approximately 25.4 million people, are located in Africa. In that same year, 680,000 individuals lost their lives to HIV-related causes, and another 1.5 million acquired the HIV virus.
The 2021 Theme: ‘End Inequalities. End AIDS’
Each year, World AIDS Day carries a theme, guiding global efforts in the battle against HIV/AIDS. In 2021, the theme is ‘End inequalities. End AIDS’. This theme focuses on reaching those often left behind in global efforts to control the spread and impact of HIV/AIDS. WHO and its partners emphasize the growing inequalities in access to essential HIV services.
WHO’s Call to Action
The World Health Organization uses World AIDS Day to call on global leaders and citizens alike to confront the inequalities that fuel the AIDS pandemic. The organization is urging leaders to ensure that even the most marginalized communities have access to vital HIV services.
The Significance of World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day serves as an ongoing reminder that HIV remains a global issue of significant concern. The day stresses the necessity of continued efforts to raise funds, increase awareness, combat stigma, and reinforce health education programs. It’s also an opportunity to stand in solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV around the world.
Understanding HIV and Its Impact on Human Immunity
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks CD4, a type of White Blood Cell (T cells), crucial for our body’s immune system. These T cells roam around the body identifying anomalies and infections. Once inside the body, HIV multiplies and destroys these vital cells, thus critically damaging the immune system.
Once infected, the virus remains in the body forever. In healthy individuals, the CD4 count typically ranges between 500- 1600. However, in an HIV-infected individual, it could plummet to as low as 200.
Ultimately, understanding HIV/AIDS and its far-reaching implications is essential, not just on World AIDS Day but every day, to end the pandemic and support those affected by it.