Concorde Staff
One million Americans are living with HIV, the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Thanks to the medical professionals who work tirelessly to detect and treat this potentially deadly disease, many patients live long, healthy and productive lives.
Today, Americans will participate in World AIDS Day, which provides an opportunity for the world's citizens to unite in the battle against HIV, show their support for people living with the disease and remember the people claimed by AIDS. World AIDS Day began in 1988 as the first health-recognition day celebrated on a global scale.
Across the United States and the world, government and health officials, nonprofit organizations and individuals observe World AIDS Day by sharing information about controlling the spread of AIDS.
A SPECIAL EVENT SPONSORED BY OUR KANSAS CITY CAMPUS
Today, our Kansas City campus is sponsoring a "Getting to Zero" health fair event at the Robert Mohart Multipurpose Center. More than 25 local organizations concerned with health and wellness are scheduled to turn out to mark World Aids Day, including:
- KC Care Clinic
- KC Health Department - Communicable Disease Prevention & Immunizations
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
- ReStart, Inc. U.S. DHHS HIV/AIDS Regional Resource Network Program
THE IMPORTANCE OF WORLD AIDS DAY
The World Health Organization notes that HIV represents a significant public health issue on a global scale and has killed more than 34 million people. Without treatment, the estimated time of survival with the disease is approximately nine to 11 years. In 2014, approximately 1.2 million people died around the world from causes related to HIV and AIDS.
Around the world, some 37 million people are known to be infected with HIV. But today, human immunodeficiency virus is no longer a death sentence, because scientists and medical professionals understand more about the disease and its progression than ever before.
Still, many people around the world fear the virus and misunderstand how it is transmitted. The result is discrimination and stigma against those infected with HIV. World AIDS Day plays a significant role in reminding the public and government officials that HIV and AIDS still exist. It also highlights the importance of raising money for further study, increasing awareness and improving education.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS: WORKING TO ERADICATE HIV AND AIDS
HIV is often diagnosed through rapid diagnostic lab tests administered by dedicated medical technicians who work to detect and eradicate the disease. The tests pinpoint the presence of HIV antibodies, often on the same day. Quick diagnosis allows for critical treatment and care to begin immediately.
Thankfully, HIV can be controlled through early detection and effective medication therapy. But much work remains to be done to diagnose and treat the millions of souls around the world who are unaware of their infection.
If you're interested in helping patients by assisting with early detection and treatment of diseases like HIV, consider joining the medical laboratory technician program at Concorde. Call us, and we'll get you started.
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