The 1st of December is a significant date globally recognized as World AIDS Day. Established back in 1988, it was the pioneer among global health days. The main aim behind marking this special day is to raise societal awareness about AIDS (Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome), a devastating pandemic caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which critically damages the immune system. Each year, a particular theme is chosen to guide the commemorations, and in 2019, the spotlight was on ‘Communities make the difference’.
A Brief History of World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day, founded in 1988, holds the distinction of being the very first global health day. The initiative was born from an urgent need to address the growing AIDS crisis that had begun to grip the world. World AIDS Day provides an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness.
The Importance of Raising Public Awareness About AIDS
The primary purpose behind observing World AIDS Day is to raise public awareness about AIDS, a pandemic disease caused due to the infection of the HIV. This disease leads to severe damage to the immune system, thereby impeding the body’s ability to fight off illnesses and infections. Education and awareness about AIDS are vital components in combating the spread of this deadly disease.
Annual Themes for World AIDS Day
Every year, the theme for World AIDS Day is carefully chosen to reflect current issues and needs in the ongoing battle against this global pandemic. The 2019 theme, ‘Communities make the difference,’ illustrates the power of communities in terms of supporting and aiding AIDS victims and helping in the prevention and control of further HIV infections.
| Year | Theme |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Know Your Status |
| 2019 | Communities Make the Difference |
| 2020 | Global Solidarity, Shared Responsibility |
HIV/AIDS Control in India
The National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), an arm of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is responsible for providing leadership to the HIV/AIDS control program in India. It operates through 35 HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Societies across the country. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare implemented the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017, known as the HIV/AIDS Act 2017. This act was designed to prevent and control the spread of HIV and AIDS and establish mechanisms for addressing the complaints of those infected with HIV and AIDS.
