Dance Steps to Raise Awareness About HIV Prevention and Early Detection
World AIDS Day Marked in Basque Country Amid Rising HIV Cases
san Sebastián, Spain – The Basque Country observed World AIDS Day on december 1st with a somber reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV. While the region commemorated those lost to the virus, the day also highlighted a concerning trend: a rise in new HIV cases.
Osakidetza, the Basque Health Service, detected 134 new HIV cases in 2023, seven more than the previous year and a 22% increase compared to 2020.since 1997,Osakidetza has identified 4,307 HIV cases in the Basque Country.
Alarmingly, 7.5% of HIV cases remain undiagnosed, and half of the diagnosed cases are detected late.
[Image: A photo of the Kursaal building in San Sebastián adorned with a red ribbon,symbolizing the fight against HIV/AIDS.]
The red ribbon, a global symbol of HIV/AIDS awareness, adorned prominent locations across the Basque Country, including the Kursaal, the San Sebastián City Hall, municipal buildings, and public transportation.
World AIDS Day events in San Sebastián focused on remembrance, prevention, and support. A floral tribute was held in Teresa de Calcuta Square, honoring those lost to AIDS.
Representatives from Acasgi,Ehgam,Gehitu,and Harribeltza,associations dedicated to HIV/AIDS support,emphasized the importance of prevention,early detection,and access to treatment. They also stressed the need for continued public awareness to combat stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.
around 1,000 individuals are currently enrolled in the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) program in the Basque Country. PrEP is a preventative treatment for people at high risk of HIV infection.The day culminated with a moving performance by 90 dancers from the San Sebastián School of Music and Dance. Their choreography, blending classical, contemporary, and Basque dance styles, served as a powerful visual testament to the resilience and strength of those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Basque Country Faces Rising HIV Cases on World AIDS Day
San Sebastián,spain: World AIDS Day 2023 brought a somber reflection to the Basque Country,highlighting the region’s ongoing battle against HIV amid a concerning increase in new cases. While commemorations honored those lost to the virus, the day served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for continued prevention efforts and support for those living with HIV.
Osakidetza, the Basque Health Service, registered 134 new HIV cases in 2023, a 22% increase compared to 2020. This rise marks a worrying trend, with 7.5% of HIV cases remaining undiagnosed and half of diagnosed cases detected at a late stage.
Public awareness took center stage on World AIDS Day as the red ribbon, a global symbol of solidarity with those affected by HIV/AIDS, adorned prominent locations across the Basque Country – from the Kursaal in San Sebastián to City Hall, municipal buildings, and public transport.
In San Sebastián, events focused on remembrance, prevention, and support. A floral tribute in Teresa de Calcuta Square honored those lost to AIDS, while representatives from HIV/AIDS support associations – Acasgi, Ehgam, Gehitu, and Harribeltza – emphasized the importance of early detection, treatment access, and the fight against stigma and discrimination.
Approximately 1,000 individuals are currently enrolled in the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) program in the Basque Country. This preventative treatment,for those at high risk of HIV infection,highlights the region’s commitment to proactive HIV prevention.
The day culminated in a powerful performance by 90 dancers from the San Sebastián School of Music and Dance. Their choreography, a blend of classical, contemporary, and Basque dance styles, offered a poignant tribute to the resilience and strength of those affected by HIV/AIDS.