December 1 – World AIDS Day
📍The National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine emphasizes that the fight against AIDS is not only about treatment, but also about awareness, responsibility, and prevention. Today, we remember the millions of people affected by this disease, support those living with HIV, and emphasize the importance of access to quality healthcare.
📍Quick facts
• HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, gradually reducing its ability to fight infections.
• AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection, which occurs without treatment.
• More than 39 million people worldwide are living with HIV.
• Antiretroviral therapy (ART) allows people to live a full life, control the virus, and prevent its transmission.
• A person with an “undetectable viral load” cannot transmit HIV through sexual contact.
☝️💬👨⚕️ How did World AIDS Day come about?
• The day was established in 1988 by the World Health Organization.
• It was the first global health initiative focused on solidarity, support, and information.
• The symbol of the day is a red ribbon, which represents remembrance, hope, and struggle.
📍Precautions and recommendations
- Safe sex is the basis of prevention.
Using condoms significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission.
- Get tested regularly.
It is recommended to get tested once a year, or more often if you are at risk.
The test is free and takes a few minutes.
- Do not share needles or instruments.
This is one of the most common ways of transmitting the virus.
- ART is vital.
Modern treatment allows you to control the virus, protect your partners, and live a long life.
- Be aware of stigma.
Discrimination against people living with HIV causes no less harm than the virus itself.
Respect, support, and do not create barriers.
📍Position of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine
The National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine continues to:
• support scientific research in the field of infectious diseases;
• develop a system of early diagnosis;
• work on improving treatment and prevention methods;
• promote public awareness of HIV/AIDS.
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(date of publication on the website: 01.12.2025)