World AIDS Day: The Importance of Awareness and Early Diagnosis in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS

HIV and AIDS: Definitions and Modes of Transmission

According to information published by the Ministry of Health, individuals infected with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) are defined as “people living with HIV.” AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) refers to the condition that may develop as a result of HIV weakening the immune system.
HIV infection has continued to appear worldwide since the 1980s. Ministry data show that HIV is most commonly transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, shared needle use, transfusion of HIV-infected blood products, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The disease can occur in all age groups, making sustainable public awareness efforts critically important.

Current Approaches in Treatment: Viral Load Can Be Suppressed to Zero

Although there is no definitive cure for HIV, the Ministry of Health emphasizes that modern medications allow the disease to be kept under control. When individuals receiving regular antiretroviral therapy reach an undetectable viral load in their blood, it is accepted that transmission does not occur. Thus, with proper treatment, HIV becomes a manageable chronic condition.
Academics from IGU PTR highlight the supportive role of physiotherapy and rehabilitation, especially in maintaining quality of life, and emphasize the importance of regular health monitoring for individuals living with HIV to preserve physical functionality.

Global and National Data: Increasing Awareness, Strong Monitoring

According to the UNAIDS 2025 report, 1.3 million people worldwide contracted HIV in 2024, and 630,000 people died due to HIV/AIDS-related causes. These figures indicate the ongoing need for effective global awareness efforts.
Ministry of Health data show that Turkey remains among countries with low HIV/AIDS prevalence. From 1985 to November 10, 2025, a total of 54,472 HIV-positive and 2,629 AIDS cases were reported. Of these cases, 82.1% were men and 17.9% were women, with the highest rates observed in the 25–29 and 30–34 age groups. It was also reported that 15.5% of the cases were foreign nationals.

Prevention Methods: A Preventable Disease

One of the key points emphasized by the Ministry is that HIV/AIDS is entirely preventable. Prevention methods include:
• Monogamy and safe sexual practices
• Condom use
• Getting tested after risky contact
• Avoiding shared needle use
• Safe blood transfusion procedures
• Early diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy
To prevent mother-to-child transmission, prophylaxis is administered to pregnant individuals and newborns. Thanks to medications provided by the Ministry of Health, the risk of transmission can be reduced to below 1%.

Access to Services in Turkey: Treatment and Support Under General Health Insurance

In Turkey, access to treatment for individuals living with HIV/AIDS is guaranteed under General Health Insurance (GSS). The Ministry states that there are no issues regarding access to treatment and emphasizes that all notifications are made through an encrypted system to protect patient privacy. This approach is critical in preventing discrimination and stigmatization.

Voluntary Counseling and Testing Centers: Free Support Services

Within the scope of the HIV/AIDS Control Program, the Ministry collaborates with academic institutions, NGOs, and international organizations. Efforts include:
• Increasing public awareness
• Informing the public about transmission routes and prevention methods
• Fighting discrimination
• Providing correct guidance after potential exposure
Voluntary Counseling and Testing Centers continue to offer free services for these purposes. The current list of centers and statistics can be accessed on the Ministry of Health’s official website.

A Call to Society from IGU PTR: Be Informed, Stay Protected, Offer Support

On the occasion of World AIDS Day, the Istanbul Gelisim University Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation calls on everyone to get tested regularly, seek accurate information, and combat stigmatization. The department emphasizes the importance of educating future healthcare professionals to be knowledgeable, sensitive, and committed to serving society.