Even as we find ourselves in the midst of a nw pandemic, December 1 reminds us to pause in recognition of another global health crisis that continues to impact our communities. World AIDS Day has been observed each year on this date since 1988, when it began as a day of remembrance to the many lives lost to AIDS-related complications and to serve as an urgent call to action for research into prevention and treatment options as well as the search for a cure.
Colorado Health Network is proud to join in the tradition of observing World AIDS Day, and this year, it will do so through virtual events on social media in which anyone can participate regardless of their location. CHN provides resources to Coloradans living with and at risk of acquiring HIV, including prevention and testing services, PrEP, behavioral health care, medical and dental care, insurance navigation, case management, syringe exchange, and housing and nutritional assistance. CHN has continued meeting the needs of the community throughout the current COVID-19 crisis by providing many programs via telehealth and by adapting any necessary in-person services to improve safety for both clients and staff.
The impact of HIV and AIDS was devastating to an entire generation, particularly in the early days before the advent of effective treatment options. Since HIV was first identified, over 35 million people worldwide have died from AIDS-related complications. While a cure for HIV continues to be elusive, incredible strides have been made in treatment and prevention. HIV today is a treatable condition, which means effective management can be achieved for many by taking a once-daily pill.
By starting treatment quickly and remaining in care, people with HIV can expect to live full, rich, and healthy lives. We know today that Undetectable=Untransmittable, or U=U: a person with a suppressed, undetectable viral load has zero risk of transmitting the virus. Finally, the advent of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, or PrEP, means that by taking daily medication, individuals without HIV can drastically reduce their risk of acquiring the virus.
World AIDS Day provides the opportunity to celebrate advances in treatment and prevention, even as we remember those we have lost and advocate for more effective strategies to treat HIV, eliminate stigma, and reduce the continued spread of the virus. We invite you to join Colorado Health Network by following facebook.com/chndenver for additional news, updates, and virtual events.
