On December 1 of each year, communities around the world come together to recognize World AIDS Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS. This even aims to raise awareness, support those living with the virus, and to remember the lives lost since the beginning of the epidemic. First established in 1988, World AIDS Day remains an important time to reflect on how far we have come – and how much more we can still do to reduce stigma, increase testing, and prevent new infections.
Despite major advancements in treatment, HIV/AIDS continues to affect millions all over the world. Many individuals are unaware of their status, and misinformation still surrounds how HIV is transmitted and how it can be prevented. Through education, open communication, and access to healthcare, we can continue to lower transmission rates and support healthier communities.
AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. It is the most advanced stage of infection caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV attacks the immune system, especially the CD4 or T-cells that help the body fight off infections. Over time, if HIV is not treated, the virus weakens the immune system to the point where even minor illnesses can become serious or life-threatening.
Here is clarification of the terminology:
With today’s treatments – especially antiretroviral therapy (ART)-- most people who are diagnosed early and take their medication consistently never develop AIDS. In fact, ART can reduce the virus in the body to undetectable levels, meaning the person can live a long, healthy life and cannot sexually transmit HIV to others. This is often summarized as U = U: Undetectable = Untransmittable - and this what every person who is infected with the virus should aim for.
Over the past decade, scientific progress has transformed HIV from a once - fatal disease into a manageable chronic condition. However, significant challenges still remain:
World AIDS Day serves as a reminder that early testing, prevention, and treatment saves lives– and that compassion, education, and community support all play central roles in ending the epidemic.
Increasing public knowledge about HIV is one of the strongest tools we have for prevention. HIV is transmitted through specific body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The most common methods of transmission include:
HIV is not transmitted through casual contact. You cannot get HIV from hugging, shaking hands, sharing utensils, coughing, mosquito bites, or simply being near someone who has the virus. Dispelling myths like these helps reduce stigma and supports a more informed, compassionate community.
Preventing HIV is more achievable today than ever before. The following steps can significantly reduce the risk of infection:
For individuals living with HIV, starting treatment as early as possible is key.
Access to treatment, regular medical follow-up, and emotional support all play important roles in maintaining health and well-being.
If you have concerns about HIV, possible exposure, symptoms, or prevention strategies– including PrEP or PEP– talk to your healthcare provider. They can offer confidential testing, answer questions, and provide guidance tailored to your healthcare needs. Open communication with a trusted professional is one of the most empowering steps you can take in protecting your health and the health of others.
Dr. Eugene Pok is a resident physician who sees patients of all ages and provides obstetrical services at Lone Star Family Health Center, a non-profit 501©3 Federally Qualified Health Center operating facilities in Conroe, Spring, Willis, Grangerland, and Huntsville, and serving as home to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family Medicine physicians for Texas and our community.