Honoring World AIDS Day
December is National AIDS Awareness Month, and World AIDS Day is December 1–both dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS epidemic caused by the spread of HIV, showing support for people living with HIV, honoring the memory of those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses, and standing together in the fight against HIV. The theme for this year is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”, calling for sustained political leadership, international cooperation, and human-rights-centered approaches to end AIDS by 2030.
Since 1990, S:US has provided services to people living with HIV/AIDS. We provide a full spectrum of support, from prevention, early intervention, case management, and help moving from unstable housing situations to permanent housing.
An estimated 88,700 people with HIV were living in NYC in 2023 (NYC Health). And 1,686 people were newly diagnosed with HIV in NYC in 2023 — an increase of 7.6% from 2022. HIV is preventable and treatable.
To end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New York City and around the world, we must continue to recognize housing as a form of healthcare. The link between housing instability and poor health outcomes for individuals with HIV/AIDS is well-documented. Access to stable housing significantly improves medication adherence, mental health, and overall quality of life. Unstable living conditions, on the other hand, contribute to stress, exacerbate health disparities, and hinder progress in curbing the spread of the virus.
As we celebrate another World AIDS Day, let’s commit to sustaining and accelerating progress against HIV/AIDS. Visit NYC Health for information about HIV testing, treatment, and prevention.
