World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, is a global initiative to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, eliminate stigma, and promote access to treatment and prevention. The theme for 2024, “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”, emphasizes the importance of human rights in combating the epidemic and ensuring access to healthcare for all.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that causes AIDS by attacking the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which are critical for fighting infection.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the final stage of HIV infection, characterized by a severely weakened immune system, making the body vulnerable to life-threatening infections and cancers.
Key Highlights of World AIDS Day 2024
Global Observance
- WHO collaborates with communities to focus on rights-based approaches to HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.
- Efforts aim to educate the public, foster collective responsibility, and break stigma.
India’s Achievements
- Reduction in New Infections: New HIV infections in 2023 were 44% lower than in 2010.
- Decline in AIDS-related Deaths: Deaths reduced by 79%, reflecting progress in treatment and awareness.
- Adoption of the 95-95-95 Target:
- 81% of AIDS cases identified.
- 88% receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).
- 97% with suppressed viral loads.
HIV/AIDS Burden in India
- Current Statistics (2023):
- Estimated Patients: 44 lakh.
- Women’s Share: Women aged above 15 account for 44%.
- Children’s Share: Nearly 3% of cases.
- Regional Concerns:
- High Prevalence States: Mizoram, Nagaland, Manipur, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana (prevalence > 0.4%).
- Emerging Concern: Rising HIV prevalence in Punjab.
Challenges in Combating HIV/AIDS
- Stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV).
- Limited awareness in rural and underserved areas.
- Disparities in access to ART, especially in high-burden states.
- High prevalence among vulnerable groups, including women and children.
Way Forward
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Focus on eradicating stigma and encouraging voluntary testing.
- Enhancing ART Access: Strengthen healthcare systems to ensure universal coverage.
- Focus on High-Burden States: Target interventions in regions like Mizoram, Nagaland, and Punjab.
- Community Involvement: Partner with NGOs and local bodies to engage communities in prevention and support initiatives.
- Education for Women and Children: Promote awareness among vulnerable groups to reduce transmission and improve healthcare-seeking behaviour.
World AIDS Day 2024 highlights the need for a collaborative, rights-based approach to combat HIV/AIDS. India’s achievements in reducing infections and deaths are commendable, but sustained efforts are required to address regional disparities and ensure inclusive healthcare. By advancing the “Take the Rights Path” agenda, India can lead the way toward an HIV-free future.
