World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day is an international observance established to halt the spread of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Turkish: İnsan Bağışıklık Yetmezliği Virüsü), raise awareness about AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Turkish: Edinsel Bağışıklık Yetmezliği Sendromu), and support individuals affected by the epidemic. The date of 1 December was chosen to foster a unified social movement toward this goal.

Since 1 December 1988, World AIDS Day has been officially recognized under the leadership of the World Health Organization (WHO). The red ribbon is used as the global symbol of awareness and signifies that the wearer understands AIDS, strives to prevent its transmission, and honors those who have died from the disease.

The primary purpose of World AIDS Day is to raise awareness and promote understanding of HIV/AIDS in society. The day encourages the dissemination of information about HIV/AIDS to all segments of the population, particularly young people, promotes knowledge of transmission routes, and supports the adoption of preventive measures. It is also significant for providing support to people living with HIV and for combating social stigma.

HIV is a virus that directly damages the immune system. Individuals who are HIV positive may live for many years without showing symptoms but can still transmit the virus to others. AIDS is a clinical condition that develops when HIV infection has severely compromised the immune system. In individuals with weakened immunity, opportunistic infections and cancers emerge.

HIV infection primarily spreads through three routes. The most common mode of transmission is unprotected sexual contact. Infection can also occur through blood or blood products taken from HIV-positive individuals; in Türkiye, all blood and blood products are tested for HIV before use. HIV can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. HIV does not spread through touch, handshakes, sharing the same environment, clothing or kitchen utensils, or insect bites.

HIV infection has been spreading worldwide since the 1980s. Since the beginning of the epidemic, the number of people infected with HIV has reached millions, and AIDS-related deaths constitute a major global health issue. Children are among those living with HIV, and new infections continue to occur each year.

The first HIV case in Türkiye was reported in 1985. Various measures and initiatives are implemented in the country to combat HIV/AIDS. HIV-positive individuals have access to treatment and medication under the General Health Insurance system, and free counseling and testing services are provided to at-risk groups. Awareness in the community is increased through Voluntary Counseling and Testing Centers. Within the framework of the Türkiye HIV/AIDS Control Program (2019–2024), multi-sectoral strategies that respect human rights are applied. The program treats HIV infection not merely as a health issue but as a social problem affecting all sectors. Awareness campaigns, peer education, and information initiatives are carried out accordingly.

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