The most recent report on global HIV and AIDS statistics has revealed a staggering estimate of 39 million people living with HIV.
Alarmingly, the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region alone carries a burden of 25.6 million individuals affected by this virus, marking a profound impact within this region as of 2023.
In 2022, the devastating toll of HIV-related causes resulted in the loss of 630,000 lives, while 1.3 million people newly acquired the virus.
These figures underscore the continued gravity of HIV as a major global public health concern, having claimed a striking 40.4 million lives since its emergence, with ongoing transmission reported across all countries worldwide.
Mr. Michael Tagoe, the Project Officer for the Western and Central Region at Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana (PPAG), brought attention to the disproportionate impact on women in contracting the virus.
He emphasized that women face a significantly higher risk, with approximately 80 per cent of HIV transmission occurring through sexual-related activities.
“If you look at the data, it shows and not just in Ghana, but everywhere universally because of the biological makeup of mood sexes; females receive and so females are likely in terms of infection, to pick up the virus,” he said.
Mr. Tagoe expressed these views on the Atlantic Wave ahead of the Annual World AIDS Day celebration scheduled for 1st December.
He highlighted the enduring challenges such as stigma and high default rates, which continue to contribute to the concerning prevalence of HIV infections.
Despite advancements in managing the health condition, he emphasized the urgency of overcoming stigmatization to seek appropriate healthcare.
On his part, Health Promotion Officer, Mr. Stephen Nyame from the Cape Coast Metro Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service stressed the pivotal role of communities worldwide in the fight against AIDS.
He said this year’s celebration aims at ensuring community members are well-informed about policies designed to combat AIDS by 2030.
Mr. Nyame also highlighted successes in HIV prevention, treatment, and care, including the utilization of instant medications and door-to-door services to reach individuals who may be disinclined to seek facility-based care.
This Year’s World AIDS Day Theme: “Let Communities Lead”
Under the theme, “Let Communities Lead,” this year’s World AIDS Day underscores the indispensable role of community involvement in leading the charge against the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Mr. Nyame underscored the importance of community engagement, policy awareness, testing, and eradication efforts as essential components of the collective journey towards ending AIDS by 2030.
Source: Flora Tang/ATLFMNEWS
