Ghana joins the world to mark World AIDS Day.
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). By damaging your immune system, HIV interferes with your body’s ability to fight infection and disease.
The theme for the 2020 observance is “Ending the HIV/AIDS Epidemic: Resilience and Impact” (“Erradicar la epidemia del VIH/SIDA: Resiliencia e Impacto”).
According to the UNAIDS, as of 2019, adults and children living with HIV in Ghana were estimated to be 340.000. Women aged 15 and above living with HIV in 2019 was also estimated to be 210.000, representing 64% of PLHIV.
The statistics continue to show a gendered infection in Ghana at the detriment of women and girls.
Numerous efforts: investments of resources, targeted interventions, as well as research and development, have led to immense progress in prevention, treatment, and care to defeat HIV.
The very recent study results showing the effectiveness of long-acting injectable medicines (cabotegravir) for preventing HIV among women; the positive opinion on the effectiveness of the Dapivirine vaginal ring to reduce the risk of HIV infection for women add to the progress made towards defeating the disease.
According to UNAIDS, globally, increased access to HIV treatment has averted around 12.1 million AIDS-related deaths since 2010.
This victory calls for celebration as it has led to a significant reduction of HIV transmission and related deaths. The progress through remarkable has been unequal, notably in expanding access to antiretroviral therapy.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Kofi Atakora
