Despite significant advancements in prevention and treatment, HIV remains a pressing global health challenge. Globally, nearly 40 million people live with HIV, and while new infections have declined from their peak, 1.3 million individuals still acquire HIV annually. AIDS-related illnesses claimed 630,000 lives in 2023, underscoring the ongoing severity of the epidemic.
The disease disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including men who have sex with men, racial and ethnic minorities, and people in the Global South. Stigma and discrimination continue to be major barriers, preventing individuals from accessing crucial testing, prevention (like PrEP), and treatment services. Furthermore, a substantial number of people living with HIV are unaware of their status, hindering effective intervention. Until access to prevention and care is universal, and societal barriers like stigma are dismantled, HIV will continue to exert a profound impact on individuals, communities, and global public health.
The Queer God Squad wants you to be healthy and live a long time. Get tested. Practice safer sex. Get on PrEP if you can. Get on HIV therapies if you’ve tested positive. AIDS is still a concern, so please, be concerned for yourself and others until we finally have a cure.
