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World AIDS Day is observed every year on 1 December. The day is dedicated to create awareness and educate people about AIDS, and different measures to prevent this incurable and lethal disease. Celebrating World AIDS Day is an opportunity to put an end to the stigmas associated with this disease, honour those who lost their precious lives, and engage in activities that support HIV/AIDS research and advanced treatment.
AIDS is a lethal and life threatening disease caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. It is the most advanced stage of HIV during which the victim's body is immunocompromised and thereby makes the patient more susceptible to secondary infections. If HIV treatment is successful, the person may not develop AIDS.
Let us read about the World AIDS Day 2023 theme, activities, history, significance, quotes, and more.
World AIDS Day is celebrated on 1 December annually. This year, it falls on Friday, 1 December 2023.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), "The world can end AIDS with communities leading the way. That is why the theme for World AIDS Day this year is ‘Let Communities Lead’, and much more than a celebration of the achievements of communities, it is a call to action to enable and support communities in their leadership roles." On World AIDS Day 2023, WHO celebrates and recognises the invaluable contributions of communities in leading the response to HIV.
The first every World AIDS Day was recognised on in 1988 with an intention to create awareness about HIV/AIDS on global level, and commemorate the precious lives lost to this lethal disease. Over the past 35 years, there have been tremendous developments and advancements in HIV/AIDS research, which has played a significant role in the management of this disease. Additionally, the contribution of global advocacy groups and communities
This year marks the 35th commemoration of World AIDS Day, and is primarily focused on highlighting the critical role of communities in combating the disease, and recognising the remaining challenges. The significance of celebrating World AIDS Day is to promote equitable access to healthcare services, especially in underdeveloped countries with an aim to control HIV infection, and prevent its progression to AIDS.
The following are some of the World AIDS Day 2023 activities that people must engage in mark the celebration.
Participate in seminars, workshops, webinars, events, and conferences on HIV AIDS.
Distribute free pamphlets, flyers, posters, and booklets to create awareness about HIV AIDS.
Run online HIV AIDS campaigns on social media using hashtags #WorldAIDSDay, #AIDSDAY, #WorldAIDSDAY2023, #AIDS, and more,
Take part in HIV AIDS fundraising events to support advanced research and treatment.
Donate to HIV AIDS communities so that they can take significant measures to put an end to HIV pandemic.
Promote and support HIV AIDS research.
The following are some of the quotes and slogans on World AIDS Day to spread awareness.
HIV AIDS is a disease with stigma. And we have learned with experience, not just with HIV AIDS but with other diseases, countries for many reasons are sometimes hesitant to admit they have a problem. [Margaret Chan].
HIV/AIDS has no boundaries. [Annie Lennox].
I think AIDS can be won. I think we can win this fight. It is winnable. But it means behavior change. [Franklin Graham].
You have so much power to bring awareness, prevention and change. [Ashley Judd].
People with HIV and AIDS are nothing to be afraid of. They are people just like every single one of us, and each has a story to tell. These people should be helped, embraced, and not dismissed. We need to open our hearts and our minds to them, and we just may learn we're pretty much all the same. [Lisa Lampanelli].
Because of the lack of education on AIDS, discrimination, fear, panic, and lies surrounded me. [Ryan White].
I enjoy being the messenger for God in terms of letting people know about HIV and AIDS. [Magic Johnson].
People with AIDS, cancer and other illnesses need free nonmedical support services. [Marianne Williamson].
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