South Tyneside Sexual Health and South Tyneside Council have again this year collaborated, in lighting up South Tyneside town hall , in support and remembrance of all individuals across the globe who have died from AIDS. World AIDS Day takes place on the 1st December each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day.
Across the North East, there are around 1,800 people living with HIV, with one in six newly diagnosed cases seen in people over 50. Advances in treatment mean that people living with HIV/AIDS can now live a near-normal lifespan, however early diagnosis is absolutely key.
Certain groups, such as men who have sex with men, and Black African communities, are more at risk of getting HIV, but anyone can get it. South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust is encouraging anyone at risk of HIV, including those who have had sex with a new or casual partner, gets tested because those diagnosed early can have a life expectancy matching that of people who are not HIV infected.
Dr Medhat Basta, Consultant in Sexual Health with the Trust, said: “There have been many scientific advances in treatment for HIV over the years and although it is a chronic medical condition, it is easily treated with antiretroviral treatment. This allows patients living with HIV to have an almost normal life in terms of quality and longevity.
“HIV should no longer be an untreated or a stigmatized condition and we want HIV
testing to be seen as a normal part of taking care of your health and well-being especially if you have had unprotected sex with a new partner.
“While rates of late diagnosis are falling, too many people – particularly heterosexual men and women, patients who are older and people from Black African communities – are still diagnosed late. Earlier diagnosis will ensure better outcomes for the patient and reduce the transmission of infection to uninfected partners.
“We would always remind people that the best way to protect yourself from contracting any sexually transmitted disease, including HIV/AIDS is by practising safe sex and using condoms with all new and casual partners.”
For information about access to HIV testing and other sexual health services provided by South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust, including contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections contact us at South Tyneside Sexual Health on 0191 4028191