OTTAWA, July 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Nearly 37 million people are currently living with HIV, with approximately 2 million new infections occurring annually. Recognizing the public health challenge this poses, Canada remains a steadfast partner in the global effort to end this threat to public health.
The Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Health, will travel to Durban, South Africa next week to participate in the 21st International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2016). This major international health event is attended by more than 18,000 delegates from around the world and is organized by the International AIDS Society.
This year's theme, Access Equity Rights Now, brings focus to the need to address the specific vulnerabilities of key populations including gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, people who use drugs, transgender persons, women, girls, people in prisons and Indigenous communities. The conference will provide Canadian representatives with the opportunity to further collaborate with those who are dedicated to addressing HIV/AIDS through innovative research and by improving prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care for those living with HIV/AIDS.
While in Durban, Minister Philpott will address key stakeholders and audiences, and meet with international leaders and organizations working towards the common goal of eliminating HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Quick Facts
- In September, 2016, Canada will host the Fifth Replenishment Conference of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. Canada has also pledged $785 million to the Global Fund for 2017 to 2019.
- In 2016-17 the federal government will invest more than $75 million domestically through the Federal Initiative to Address HIV/AIDS in Canada and the Canadian HIV Vaccine Initiative.
Quotes
- "The Government of Canada is committed to working with the global community to reach our collective goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Canada supports equity, access and rights for key populations because we understand that eliminating AIDS cannot be achieved unless we address the health inequities and persistent stigma and discrimination faced by those living with, and at risk of HIV."
The Honourable Jane Philpott, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Health
Associated Links
SOURCE Public Health Agency of Canada
Contacts: Andrew MacKendrick, Office of Jane Philpott, Minister of Health, 613-957-0200; Media Relations, Public Health Agency of Canada, 613-957-2983
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