MADRID, Spain.- In Cuba, around 1,500 people infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are registered annually, for a prevalence of 0.4%. The figures were shared by official media on December 1, World AIDS Day.
According to Cuban News Agency (ACN)“despite the progress made in the search for a comprehensive approach in the treatment of the disease, in the country there are manifestations of stigma and discrimination” towards infected people.
According to Dr. Manuel Romero Placeres, head of the National HIV Prevention and Control Program, a large part of people living with HIV do not die of AIDS and the condition obtained in 2015 that certifies the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of the virus is maintained.
Quoted by ACNRomero Placeres also indicated that currently 86% of those infected in Cuba know they are living with HIV, 95.3% of them receive antiretroviral treatment and 88.6% have an undetectable viral load.
“An intersectoral and community link is required to promote prevention and health promotion actions that make it possible to advance further in the goals towards 2030 and achieve greater adherence to treatments,” said the doctor.
The specialist also mentioned the condom crisis. In this regard, he pointed out that the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), in collaboration with United Nations agencies, prioritizes key populations at high risk of contracting HIV.
Every year, the December 1st, people from all parts of the world come together to support those living with HIV and remember those who have died of AIDS-related illnesses. This year the motto of the world day against AIDS was “Equality Now”. World AIDS Day was established in 1988.
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