World AIDS Day 2015: what is it and why is it important?

What is World AIDS Day?

Held on the 1st December each year, World AIDS Day is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV and show their support for people living with the condition.

Why do we mark the day?

Firstly, over 100,000 people are living with HIV in the UK, while globally there are an estimated 34 million people who have been diagnosed as HIV positive.

Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive virus’ in history.

Not only does World Aids Day help to raise awareness about HIV - only half the people with HIV around the world are estimated to know they are carriers - it is also a good opportunity to reflect on what we know about the virus currently. Today, scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment, there are laws to protect people living with HIV and we understand so much more about treating the condition.

Yet despite this, it is still apparent that many people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition, of which 6,000 new cases are diagnosed in the UK each year.

Today is an important opportunity to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

What can I do on World AIDS day?

Pinning a red ribbon onto your jacket is one simple way to show support to and solidarity with those living with HIV. Find out where you can get a red ribbon in London here.

World AIDS Day is also a great opportunity to raise money for NAT (National AIDS Trust) - today many people across the country will be holding fundraising events such as bake sales and sponsored runs.

This World AIDS Day, NAT is challenging people to rethink outdated stereotypes, challenge myths and be positive about HIV, with their ‘Think Positive: Rethink HIV’ campaign. ​

If you want to get involved last minute, NAT is running a kissing booth in Soho Square on World AIDS Day 1-3pm with Attitude Magazine and Sink The Pink to spread the message ‘Kissing Doesn't Spread HIV. Ignorance Does’.

According to the NAT, you should ‘expect hunks, drag queens, a little bit of craziness and lots of fun.’ No tickets needed, just turn up on the day.

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