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Acquired Immunodeficiency Dyndrome (AIDS) caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is one of the greatest pandemics in human history started since 1981 and continuing till date. AIDS has claimed more than 40.4 million lives so far globally and is continuing the transmission of infection across all countries of the world with an estimated 39.0 million people living with HIV at the end of 2022. Last year 1.3 million people had new infection with HIV and 630 thousand people died due to HIV-related causes. Bangladesh is a low prevalence country with HIV prevalence <0.01% in general population, but concentrated epidemic is present among people who inject drugs, sex workers and migrant workers. Although there is no cure for HIV, there are some strategies to minimize the overall burden and related consequences. For instance, proper treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART) can reduce the virus load in the body, modify the signs and symptoms, reduce transmission and risk of complication, opportunistic infections etc. and the person can lead a healthy, productive and longer life than before.

For these people living with HIV need better testing, treatment and health care facilities linked with other infection control programs and active awareness programs for general population regarding prevention and control of HIV with special focus on young adults, vulnerable people, and high-risk population. The World Health Organization (WHO), the Global Fund and UNAIDS have global HIV strategies that are aligned with the SDG target 3.3 of ending the HIV epidemic by 2030. When considering all people living with HIV, 86% know their status, 76% are receiving antiretroviral therapy and 71% have suppressed viral loads.

World AIDS Day 2023 was celebrated on December 1, around the world like every year with a theme “Let Communities Lead” to reflect on the progress made to date, raise awareness about the challenges that remain to achieve the goals of ending AIDS by 2030 and mobilize all stakeholders to jointly redouble efforts to ensure the success of the HIV response. The Department of Social Relations of East West University also observed the day by arranging poster presentations on different topics of HIV and AIDS. Under the supervision of Dr. Marzia Zaman Sultana, Senior Lecturer of the department, the students of POP201: Health Challenges of Adolescents and Youths, presented the posters on December 1, 2023 to create awareness on the issue and was highly appreciated by all.