Observed worldwide on Dec. 1 since 1988, World AIDS Day is when millions of people come together across the globe to remember the people who lost their lives to HIV, celebrate the progress we have made toward eliminating the disease and recognize the hundreds of advocates who have fought against this epidemic. This year is significantly important because 30 years ago the world had just started to learn about what would become known as one of the worst pandemics in history. On June 5, 1981, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) documented for the first time what became known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
Over the course of the past 30 years, great strides have been achieved in learning how to prevent HIV/AIDS and ensuring those living with the disease have a positive quality of life. One of the major milestones achieved is the 15th anniversary of the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART revolutionized the treatment of the disease, transforming it from certain death to a chronic disease.
2011 not only marks the 30th anniversary of AIDS, it also marks the first time in history that AIDS will have been a treatable condition longer than it was the inevitably fatal disease first recognized. In addition, we have seen activism and advocacy that profoundly influenced our nation's response to HIV/AIDS, scientific advances resulting in the development of lifesaving, albeit not curative, treatment of HIV, and development of prevention tools that reduced the number of new infections.
In recognition of the work toward eliminating this disease from our communities, this year's World AIDS Day theme embraces the concept of "Zero": Zero new cases, Zero discrimination, Zero stigma and, most of all, Zero AIDS-related deaths.
Zero may seem like a lofty goal but it is achievable. The number of new HIV infections and deaths in the world has been reduced by nearly 20 percent. More than 50 countries have either stabilized or significantly reduced the rate of new HIV infections. It is equally important to recognize that these gains are fragile. By 2009, there were 2.6 million new HIV infections and 1.8 million people died from AIDS worldwide. Nationally, 1 in 5 individuals who are HIV positive don't even know they are positive. In Alaska, more than 1,400 individuals have been diagnosed with HIV since 1982. Each year, 30 to 40 Alaskans are diagnosed with HIV.
World AIDS Day is an opportunity for Alaskans to band together and help spread awareness about HIV/AIDS. I encourage all Alaskans to wear the universal symbol of AIDS awareness -- a red ribbon. The ribbon signifies our commitment to eliminating HIV/AIDS and reminds us of the millions of lives we have lost to the disease. By wearing a red ribbon, we remind community members there is still work that needs to be done.
It gives me great hope that an AIDS-free generation is possible in our lifetime if we continue to enlighten and empower our community. Join me and take action today -- together we can achieve Zero new cases, Zero discrimination and stigma and Zero AIDS-related deaths.
Trevor Storrs is executive director of the Alaskan AIDS Assistance Association (Four A's).
By TREVOR STORRS