World AIDS Day Highlights Urgent Need for Global HIV Funding

World AIDS Day on December 1, 2023, serves as a crucial reminder to reflect on the status of HIV and AIDS both locally and globally. This year’s theme, “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” emphasizes the detrimental effects of recent funding cuts to global HIV/AIDS initiatives. In early 2025, the U.S. Government paused most foreign aid and terminated its funding agreement with UNAIDS, which had previously provided approximately two-thirds of international financing for HIV prevention in low- and middle-income countries. This shift jeopardizes essential prevention services worldwide.

Jonille De Los Santos, healthy living manager for York Region, highlighted that these global funding reductions can strain local services. This is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, including new immigrants, as an increase in HIV incidences abroad could disrupt drug supplies and surveillance efforts. “Together, through compassion and awareness, we can end stigma and move closer to ending AIDS in Canada and beyond,” De Los Santos stated.

HIV is a sexually transmitted infection that occurs when the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) enters a person’s bloodstream. Following a brief phase of flu-like symptoms, the virus progressively destroys T-helper cells, which are crucial for combating infections. Over several years, this deterioration can lead to AIDS, a condition characterized by severe immune system failure.

According to the federal government, the number of new HIV cases in Canada dropped by around 25 percent from 1,757 cases in 2019 to 1,325 in 2020. However, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has altered this trend. The demand for and availability of services related to sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections, including HIV testing, decreased significantly. By 2022, new HIV cases rose to 1,833, approaching pre-pandemic levels.

De Los Santos emphasized the importance of HIV awareness in York Region, stating that the issue remains a public health concern intertwined with race, gender, income, and stigma-related barriers. A lack of information not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also deters individuals from seeking necessary care.

One preventive measure is PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), a daily oral medication or long-term injection that significantly reduces the risk of contracting HIV. De Los Santos underscored the effectiveness of PrEP, which has been validated by numerous studies and real-life experiences. “It’s important to have these conversations openly to boost awareness about HIV, testing, and treatment options available and to reduce stigma,” she remarked.

York Region Sexual Health Clinics has partnered with GetaKit, providing free lab-based testing for sexually transmitted infections via an online assessment. This service includes self-test HIV kits that individuals can use privately at home.

For those concerned about the implications of global HIV/AIDS funding cuts, De Los Santos encourages involvement with local organizations, sharing petitions, and supporting social media campaigns. Additionally, advocating for policies that safeguard access to HIV services is vital for ensuring continued support for affected communities.

To learn more about World AIDS Day and related initiatives, visit https://worldaidsday.org.