In 1988, the WHO designated December 1 every year as World AIDS Day, and its purpose was to eliminate stigma and discrimination and create a tolerant and friendly social environment. In order to reduce discrimination and create a harmonious social environment, we must carefully understand and follow this group. Form new understandings and correct cognitive misunderstandings, and reverse prejudices.
Today is the 33rd World AIDS Day. According to data released by the UNAIDS, in 2019, there were approximately 1.7 million new HIV infections worldwide and 690,000 deaths from AIDS-related diseases.
To prevent AIDS, you must understand this core knowledge!
AIDS is not only an issue in the field of public health but also a major challenge that the whole society needs to deal with. Popularization of HIV prevention knowledge is essential.
Regarding AIDS prevention, these key information you need to know:
1. Understand How HIV Spreads and Avoid High-Risk Behaviors
HIV primarily spreads through three routes: sexual contact, blood transmission, and mother-to-child transmission. Sexual transmission is the most common pathway, particularly through unsafe practices such as:
- Unprotected male same-sex intercourse.
- Sex with non-regular partners.
- Engagement in commercial sex work.
2. Stay Away from Drugs, Especially in Disguise
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are often disguised as everyday items like “milk tea,” “popping candy,” or “jelly beans,” which impair judgment and increase risky sexual behaviors. Identifying and avoiding these substances is critical to safeguarding health and preventing HIV.
3. Use Condoms Correctly Every Time
Consistent and correct use of condoms during sex is one of the most effective and affordable ways to prevent HIV.
4. Seek Immediate Help After Risky Contact
If you suspect HIV exposure due to unprotected sex or other high-risk activities, get tested immediately. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can reduce the risk of infection if started within 72 hours.
5. Regular Testing and Early Intervention
Individuals with ongoing high-risk behaviors should undergo HIV testing at least twice a year. Early detection and treatment improve immune recovery and quality of life.
6. Strengthening Sexual Health Education for Adolescents
Adolescents, who are often sexually active, must learn science-based sexual health knowledge to understand the risks of unsafe behaviors and prevent HIV infection.
7. Pre-Marital and Preconception Testing
Couples should voluntarily undergo HIV testing before marriage or pregnancy to protect family health and build a foundation for a healthy household.
8. Avoid Unprotected Sex with Unknown Health Status
If you’re unsure about your partner’s HIV status, avoid unprotected sex. Both parties should get tested to protect each other’s health.
9. Use Free and Confidential Testing Services
The CDC has set up a voluntary consultation and testing (VCT) clinic to provide free and confidential HIV testing and consultation services to people in need. Currently, China has approved the marketing of HIV urine self-test reagents, which can be tested at home.
10. Seek Proper Treatment and Protect Others After Diagnosis
If the self-test result is positive, you should go to a medical institution or CDC for diagnosis in a timely manner and receive professional consultation and follow-up treatment services. After the diagnosis is confirmed, you are obliged to inform your spouse and sexual partner and take effective protective measures to prevent others from being infected.
Conclusion
Preventing AIDS is everyone’s responsibility. From understanding AIDS and respecting infected people to proactive testing and standardized protection, each of us can contribute to eliminating the spread and discrimination of AIDS. On this World AIDS Day, let us join hands and move towards the goal of “zero infection, zero death, and zero discrimination.”
