December 1st is recognized as World AIDS Day, and begins AIDS Awareness Month. Since 1988, this month has been dedicated to spreading life-saving information about HIV and AIDS. This year's theme is "Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV," and focuses on narrowing the disparities between preventative resources around the world.
While it is largely out of the public conversation these days, the AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 90s took the lives of over 100,000 people in the US. today, over 38 million people are living with HIV globally. only roughly 28 million of those have access to vital treatment, leaving many millions to battle the disease alone.
The AIDS epidemic is remembered as a deeply controversial health crisis in the US, as AIDS disproportionately effected the LGBT community. in actuality, the spread of HIV/AIDS has nothing to do with sexual orientation. there are people living with HIV of all genders, races, and ages.
Along with global efforts, AIDS Awareness Month seeks to put an end to the HIV epidemic in the US by the year 2030. Health officials consider this a "once in a generation" opportunity to end an epidemic, made possible through community engagement, funding treatment strategies, and diligent diagnoses and response.
If you'd like to learn more about HIV/AIDS and ways to prevent infection today, visit the CDC website for a comprehensive history of the disease.
Donate
The Global Fund: While HIV/AIDS has been well-contained in the US in recent years, other countries around the world do not have access to these same resources, and are suffering. Donate to contribute to efforts in over 100 countries to protect, treat, and serve effected communities.
Remember
Wear your support on your sleeve. During the month of December, wear a red ribbon on your shirt, coat, or bag, in remembrance of those lost to HIV/AIDS, and support for those living with it today. You can also help spread awareness by posting credible, useful, and respectful information on your social media.
