Every year on December 1, people around the world come together to observe World AIDS Day, a day dedicated to increasing awareness about HIV and AIDS, supporting those living with the virus, remembering the lives lost, and recommitting to the goal of ending the epidemic. Since its establishment in 1988, World AIDS Day has been a vital global reminder that the fight against HIV is not over—and that education, compassion, and action remain essential.
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) harms the immune system and makes the body vulnerable to infection. When left untreated, it can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), the most advanced stage of infection.
Thanks to modern medicine, however, HIV is now a manageable chronic condition. Patients with HIV infection receive treatment known as antiretroviral therapy (ART), which has increased life expectancy considerably as compared to before. Effective treatment reduces the viral load to undetectable levels—meaning the virus cannot be transmitted sexually (U = U: Undetectable = Untransmittable).
Many people still lack accurate information about how HIV is transmitted, prevented, and treated. World AIDS Day helps spread essential knowledge, encourages testing, and promotes prevention strategies like safer sex practices, PrEP, and regular health check-ups. HIV-related stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to testing, treatment, and support. Discrimination can prevent individuals from seeking care or disclosing their status. By fostering empathy and understanding, we help create environments where people feel safe and supported.
Before treatments became widely available, AIDS claimed countless lives. December 1 serves as a day of remembrance for those whom we’ve lost, as well as a reminder of the urgent need to continue scientific research and global health efforts. Significant progress has been made in reducing new infections and improving access to treatment. However, challenges remain:
- Millions still lack access to testing and life-saving treatment.
- Stigma continues to prevent early diagnosis and care.
- Young people and marginalised communities face higher risk and fewer resources.
- Continued investment in prevention, research, and education is critical.
Ending the HIV epidemic requires global solidarity, policy improvements, and sustained public health commitment.
Let us stand together to support those living with HIV, remember those whom we’ve lost, and continue the work toward a future free of stigma—and free of AIDS. Awareness is more than a message; it’s a movement of compassion, justice, and global health progress.
Dr Sowmya Sridharan
Consultant Infectious Diseases,
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
