World AIDS Day 2022: Know theme, history and significance of the day

World AIDS Day is celebrated every year on December 1 to spread awareness about HIV infection. It was initiated by the WHO in August 1987. The theme of World AIDS Day 2022 is 'Equalize.'

HIV remains a major public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. According to a UNICEF report, more than 40 million people have lost their lives due to HIV AIDS. In 2021, about 6.5 lakh people died due to HIV infection while around 15 million people got infected with the same.

Talking about its treatment, at present, there is no cure other than anti-retroviral treatment (ART). However, with increasing access to effective HIV prevention, diagnosis and treatment, it has become a manageable chronic health condition, enabling people to live a long and healthy life.

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