Overview:
HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system and, if left untreated, can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). World AIDS Day, on 1 December, brings people together from all over the world to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS and demonstrate international solidarity in the face of this epidemic. It is a prime opportunity to raise awareness.
Objectives:
- Focusing on the importance of expanding and increasing the coverage of preventive and curative services for AIDS infection locally and globally.
- Monitoring the global spread of HIV/AIDS and monitoring the availability of related treatment and prevention services.
- Developing policies and providing standard and technical guidance to help countries strengthen interventions in the health sector to combat HIV/AIDS.
Facts:
- In 2023, an estimated 39.9 million people were living with HIV globally.
- An estimated 630,000 people died from HIV-related causes in 2023.
- An estimated 1.3 million people were newly infected with HIV in 2023.
Official Date:
Globally: December 1, 2025.
Locally: Jumada Al Thani 10, 1447 AH.
References:
Saudi Ministry of Health Portal – Health Days 2024 – World AIDS Day.
World Health Organization – World AIDS Day 2024.