World AIDS Day 2015-- Why is it important to mark the day?

World AIDS Day was first introduced and marked on 1st December 1988 and sixteen years on, the world continues to dedicate an entire day to the fatal virus. HIV/AIDS has infected millions around the world and taken their lives. An estimated 34 million people these days are living with the fatal virus. More than 35 million have died as a result of AIDS ever since the disease was first identified in 1984.
Also read: 10 facts about HIV/AIDS on World AIDS Day

The deadly epidemic is on the rise, since only last year around 2 million people globally were infected with AIDS. Of the 35 million plus people who are living with AIDS around the world, more than 2.6 million include children. So far, as many as 34 million people have died to AIDS, including 1.2 million people in 2014 alone.

In order to demonstrate solidarity with those who are suffering from the disease and to raise awareness regarding the symptoms and treatment of HIV/AIDS, World AIDS Day is marked annually on 1st December. The day is also used to remember those who have succumbed to the fatal disease and passed away.

On this day, people hold seminars and gatherings to educate and make aware the populace regarding the menace of HIV/AIDS and how to counter it. For those who contracted it, treatment methods are discussed. Also, discriminatory attitude towards those who suffer from the ailment is also discouraged and people wear red ribbons to express their solidarity with those infected with HIV/AIDS.

According to medical doctors and professionals, there are only three ways to contract AIDS, having unprotected sex, sharing needles and via mother-to-child-transmission. Hence, there are many myths and misconceptions that are associated with HIV/AIDS and its symptoms, causes and treatment.

It is really important that each and everyone of us participate in World AIDS Day and do our bit to rid the world of this global menace for a happier, healthier world.