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World AIDS Day

The AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection is one of the most destructive epidemics in recorded history with over 25 million people killed by the disease since it was first recognized in 1981. Despite recent, improved access to treatment and care in many regions of the world, the AIDS pandemic continues to claim several million lives each year. Globally, according to UNAIDS and WHO estimates, around 39.5 million adults and children are living with HIV and approximately 4.3 million became newly infected with HIV in 2006 alone. World AIDS Day, observed on December 1 each year, is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic and how it can be stopped.