World AIDS Day 2024 Observed with the Theme “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”

World AIDS Day 2024 Observed with the Theme “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”

World AIDS Day 2024 is commemorated today (December 1) under the theme “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!” The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that eliminating AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) as a global health threat by 2030 is achievable if human rights are respected and communities take the lead.

This year’s campaign urges global leaders and citizens to advocate for the right to health by addressing the disparities that obstruct progress in combating AIDS.

While the WHO European Region has advanced in managing HIV, significant hurdles persist in identifying and treating cases and preventing new infections.

Sri Lanka’s Context:
In Sri Lanka, AIDS prevalence remains relatively low. However, recent statistics from health authorities reveal a concerning surge in cases compared to previous years.

According to Dr. Vindya Kumarapeli, Director of the National STD/AIDS Control Programme and Community Medicine Specialist, the number of reported AIDS cases in the country has significantly risen. Between 2020 and 2021, approximately 200 to 300 cases were recorded, while the numbers doubled in the 2022-2023 period.

Dr. Kumarapeli also noted a rising trend of new cases among men over the last decade, with 15% of patients being young individuals aged between 15 and 24 years.

Awareness Event:
In line with World AIDS Day, the Ministry of Health organized a public awareness march that began at Galle Face Green and concluded at the Ministry of Health premises.

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, who attended the event, underscored the government’s obligation to nurture a compassionate society and intensify efforts to eliminate AIDS from Sri Lanka.