UNAIDS has released a report revealing a clear roadmap to eliminate AIDS by 2030.
Impressive progress has been made in regions with substantial investments, notably in eastern and southern Africa, where new HIV infections dropped by 57% since 2010. Botswana, Eswatini, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe have achieved the ambitious "95-95-95" targets. These targets ensure 95% of people living with HIV know their status, receive antiretroviral treatment and achieve viral suppression. Sixteen other countries, eight in sub-Saharan Africa, are close to reaching these targets.
The number of people on antiretroviral treatment globally has nearly quadrupled, from 7.7 million in 2010 to 29.8 million in 2022, demonstrating the effectiveness of treatment accessibility and healthcare investments.
However, AIDS still claims lives at an alarming rate, with one life lost every minute in 2022. Approximately 9.2 million individuals, including 660,000 children with HIV, lack life-saving treatment.
Asia and the Pacific account for 23% of new HIV infections, and certain countries in the region face rising infection rates. Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East have also witnessed concerning increases due to inadequate prevention services, punitive laws, and social discrimination.
In 2022, funding for HIV initiatives declined globally, reaching the same level as in 2013, totalling $20.8 billion instead of the required $29.3 billion by 2025.
To end AIDS by 2030, urgent action is essential. Governments, international organisations, and civil society must prioritise resources for prevention, treatment, and support services. Eliminating punitive laws and discrimination is crucial for marginalised populations.
Efforts must intensify to address rising HIV infections in Asia, eastern Europe, central Asia, and the Middle East. Tailored prevention strategies, improved healthcare access, and eradicating stigma are vital to combatting the disease.
Reversing the decline in funding and surpassing the required $29.3 billion by 2025 requires global collaboration. Investing in HIV programmes yields significant returns in lives saved and progress achieved.
The UNAIDS report calls for immediate action. Ending AIDS by 2030 is possible but requires unwavering commitment. Together, we can achieve this historic milestone and build a future free from the burden of HIV/AIDS for future generations.
For nearly 40 years, Mildmay has provided specialised medical care and rehabilitation services in our UK hospital for people living with HIV.
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