1. HIV is Manageable with Treatment: While there is no cure for HIV, it can be effectively managed with medication. This medications helps people with HIV live long, healthy lives by reducing the viral load to undetectable levels, which also prevents transmission.
    

2.  U =U (Undetectable = Untransmittable): People with HIV who are on effective medication and maintain an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to sexual partners. This concept, called U=U, is a crucial aspect of HIV prevention today.
    

3. Global HIV Statistics: As of 2023, approximately 39 million people worldwide are living with HIV. Although the global number of new infections has decreased, certain regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, still have high rates of HIV transmission.
    

4. Prevention with PrEP: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily pill that HIV-negative individuals can take to prevent infection. When taken consistently, PrEP is highly effective in reducing the risk of contracting HIV.
    

5. HIV Testing is Key: Regular HIV testing is essential for early detection and treatment. Many people with HIV are unaware of their status, which increases the risk of transmission and delays access to life-saving treatment.
    

6. Stigma and Discrimination Persist: Despite advances in treatment and prevention, HIV-related stigma remains a significant barrier. This can discourage people from getting tested or seeking treatment, exacerbating the HIV epidemic.
    

7. Mother-to-Child Transmission Can Be Prevented: With proper treatment during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, the risk of HIV transmission from mother to child can be reduced to less than 1%.
    

8. Vaccine Research Continues: While there is no HIV vaccine available yet, research is ongoing. Recent trials have shown some promise, but more work is needed to develop an effective and widely accessible vaccine.
    

9. Ageing with HIV: Thanks to medication, many people with HIV are living into their 50s, 60s, and beyond. However, they may face additional health challenges related to ageing and long-term HIV management, such as cardiovascular disease and bone health issues.
    

10. Access to Care Varies Globally: While medication is widely available, access to treatment in certain parts of the world remains a challenge. 
     

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