This late diagnosis occurs when their immune system is severely weakened and their lives are at risk, the health office warns.
PAHO’s appeal comes in the context of World AIDS Day, celebrated every December 1, and seeks to raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis, immediate initiation of antiretroviral treatment, and access to comprehensive care, all essential to preventing advanced HIV disease, saving lives, and reducing stigma.
According to the most recent data, an estimated 2.8 million people were living with HIV in Latin America and the Caribbean in 2024.
While the Caribbean reduced new infections by 21% since 2010, Latin America registered a 13% increase over the same period, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
Deaths from AIDS-related causes decreased from 42,000 to 27,000 in Latin America and from 12,000 to 4,800 in the Caribbean.
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