Observed annually on December 1, World AIDS Day raises awareness about HIV/AIDS, supports those living with the virus, and honors lives lost. It’s also a reminder of the ongoing need for prevention, treatment, and reducing stigma.
At La Fuente, we’re committed to addressing the connection between substance use and HIV, helping our clients recover and lead healthier lives through compassionate, integrated care.
LGBTQ-affirmative substance abuse treatment at La Fuente: Call us today at 323.464.2947.
What Is World AIDS Day?
Observed every year on December 1, World AIDS Day is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, supporting those living with the virus, and remembering lives lost. Since its inception in 1988, it has united communities worldwide in the fight against HIV and the effort to end stigma.
History of World AIDS Day
The World Health Organization (WHO) established World AIDS Day in 1988 to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, reduce stigma, and honor those who have died from the disease.
In 1996, UNAIDS took over the campaign, introducing yearly themes focused on issues like human rights, stigma, and improving access to care and treatment. These themes reflect the evolving global response to HIV/AIDS and the progress made in prevention, treatment, and care.
Despite this progress, World AIDS Day serves as a reminder that many people still lack access to life-saving treatments like antiretroviral therapy and prevention tools such as PrEP. Expanding access to these treatments and ensuring they reach as many people as possible is essential to ending HIV/AIDS worldwide.
Why Is World AIDS Day Important?
World AIDS Day raises awareness about HIV/AIDS and supports the 38 million people living with the virus worldwide.
While medical advancements have made it possible for people with HIV to live long, healthy lives and prevent transmission, stigma and discrimination remain significant challenges. Many people still face barriers in workplaces, schools, housing, and even healthcare, which can prevent them from accessing treatment and achieving viral suppression.
This day is an opportunity to recognize the progress made, educate the public, honor those affected, and advocate for a future where HIV is no longer a barrier to living a healthy, empowered life.
World AIDS Day 2024 Theme and Campaigns
This year, two themes highlight the diverse strategies in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress” (U.S.)
The U.S. Office of National AIDS Policy’s theme emphasizes collaboration to sustain and build upon four decades of progress. Key initiatives include:
- Expanding access to innovative treatments, like long-acting injectable PrEP.
- Addressing barriers to care, such as housing instability, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders.
- Ensuring equitable HIV services through programs like PEPFAR’s new action plan.
“Take the Rights Path” (Global)
The United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) focuses on the critical role of human rights in ending AIDS. This theme underscores the need to protect and empower vulnerable populations, ensuring equal access to HIV prevention, treatment, and support.
Together, these themes highlight the multifaceted approach needed to combat HIV/AIDS globally and locally, emphasizing innovation, equity, and human rights.
Join the Conversation
Support World AIDS Day by using #WorldAIDSDay2024 and #StopHIVTogether hashtags when posting.
World AIDS Day Events in Los Angeles
World AIDS Day in West Hollywood: The AIDS Community Then and Now (December 1)
This inter-generational dialogue features speakers like Roland Palencia and Raif Derrazi discussing the evolution of HIV/AIDS caregiving, advocacy, and community in West Hollywood.
Unidos 2024: Celebrating 35 Years of Action (December 2)
Celebrate 35 years of fighting HIV/AIDS with Unidos. This event includes inspiring speakers, performances, a dinner, and reflections on progress made in addressing HIV/AIDS.
World AIDS Day Open Mic (December 3)
Raise awareness through music, poetry, and spoken word at this open mic event celebrating resilience and hope in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Substance Use and HIV/AIDS
Substance use is closely linked to HIV risk and health outcomes. It can increase the chances of contracting or transmitting HIV, make treatment less effective, and harm overall health.
Key ways substance use impacts HIV/AIDS include:
Risky Behaviors: Drugs and alcohol can lead to risky behaviors like condomless sex or sharing needles, which significantly increase the likelihood of contracting or spreading HIV.
Drug Interactions: Some substances can interact with HIV medications, reducing their effectiveness or causing dangerous side effects.
Medication Adherence: Substance use often makes it harder for people to stick to medication regimens, such as PrEP or antiretroviral therapy (ART), increasing their vulnerability to HIV.
Weakened Immune System: Drugs and alcohol weaken the immune system, making it easier for HIV to progress and worsening health outcomes for those already living with the virus.
Addressing substance use is essential in the fight against HIV/AIDS, as it reduces risk, improves treatment adherence, and strengthens overall health outcomes.
How La Fuente Is Helping Fight HIV/AIDS
At La Fuente, we understand the close connection between substance use and HIV, and we’re uniquely equipped to address it. Our staff has extensive experience working with clients who are HIV-positive or at risk for HIV. This expertise allows us to provide fast, effective interventions that improve health outcomes.
For clients living with HIV, substance use can make it harder to stay on important medications like antiretroviral therapy or PrEP, increasing the risk of health complications or transmission. With that in mind, we prioritize testing, immediate access to resources, and getting clients back on their medications if they’ve fallen behind.
We also emphasize harm reduction strategies and education to prevent HIV transmission. Our team guides clients through options like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), ensuring they understand how to access and use these tools effectively.
By integrating substance use treatment with HIV prevention and care, La Fuente not only helps clients manage their recovery but also reduces the risk of HIV in the broader community. Our holistic, compassionate approach ensures clients receive the support they need to live their healthiest lives.
LGBTQ-focused recovery starts Here: Contact La Fuente at 323.464.2947.
