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HIV Community AIDS 2024
The Future of HIV at AIDS 2024: Leveraging Intersections and Innovations

Released: August 19, 2024

Expiration: August 18, 2025

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Key Takeaways
  • Engaging with people online is key to modern HIV advocacy and building community for people with HIV.
  • Community-led initiatives and policy implementation, working in concert, are critical for equitable and effective HIV care.

The AIDS 2024 conference shed light on crucial aspects of the HIV epidemic, from its future trajectory to innovative solutions for prevention and treatment. To me, these key topics emerged as particularly noteworthy: advocacy in the digital age, taking action to implement long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and unlocking access to HIV care for adolescents in Africa.

Taking Outreach Online
Advocacy in the digital age has revolutionized the way we approach HIV awareness and activism. As a social media influencer, HIV advocate, and person with HIV, I have witnessed the profound impact that online activism can make.

In my digital efforts, I have connected with more than 100 individuals with HIV, sharing experiences and addressing challenges. Through email, WhatsApp, and Facebook, I provided emotional support and guidance remotely. My advocacy has created a safe space for sharing stories and alleviating feelings of isolation and shame. By reaching out to others online, I plan to continue promoting awareness, education, and inclusivity, contributing to a stigma-free environment. By harnessing social media’s power, I aim to make a lasting difference in the lives of those affected by HIV, by fostering a supportive virtual community.

This is all possible because social media platforms offer unparalleled opportunities for reaching marginalized communities, disseminating accurate information, and mobilizing support. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the digital divide that separates people who do not have access to the internet and ensure that online efforts complement, rather than replace, grassroots initiatives.

Unlocking Access to HIV Care
The AIDS 2024 conference also highlighted how long-acting PrEP emerged as a game-changer in HIV prevention. However, its implementation requires addressing systemic barriers, including cost, accessibility, and stigma. By prioritizing community-led initiatives and advocating for policy changes, we can ensure that this lifesaving intervention reaches those who need it most.

In particular, access to HIV services for adolescents in Africa is a pressing concern. AIDS 2024 presentations highlighted the alarming rates of new infections among young people, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. By reforming age-related restrictions and investing in youth-friendly services, we can empower this vulnerable population to take control of their health.

As someone with HIV, I have seen firsthand the impact of differentiated service delivery models on youth health outcomes in Africa. At age 18, I graduated from Teen Club program and transitioned to adult care, experiencing improved adherence and retention thanks to youth-friendly services. Psychological counseling has also been vital in my journey.

I have benefited from initiatives like the “High Viral Load Must Fall” team at Baylor Foundation Malawi, which provides targeted support for young people struggling to achieve suppression. However, despite progress, HIV stigma persists. I believe reinforcing and improving the implementation of Malawi’s HIV Act, which was designed to protect the rights of people with HIV, is crucial.

By reforming age-related restrictions and investing in youth-friendly services, we can empower adolescents to take control of their health. I have seen the positive impact of personalized care, and I urge others to advocate for improved differentiated service models for youth, enhanced counseling services, and strengthened policy implementation to eradicate stigma. This can unlock access to HIV services for adolescents in Africa and create a brighter future for all. 

Putting People First
To conclude, the AIDS 2024 conference underscored the need for a multifaceted approach to addressing the HIV epidemic. By integrating HIV into broader health systems, harnessing the power of social media, taking action to implement long-acting PrEP, and facilitating access to HIV care for adolescents, we can create a more equitable and effective response to this enduring global health challenge.

As we move forward, it is crucial to put people first and prioritize community-led initiatives, advocacy, and policy changes that center the needs of those most affected by HIV. Only through collective action can we envision a future where HIV is no longer a life-threatening epidemic but a manageable chronic condition.

Your Thoughts?
What are some ways you put people first in your practice? How do you empower your patients to take control of their HIV care? Leave a comment to join the discussion!