A critical public health alert has been issued by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), revealing that approximately one-third of individuals living with HIV across Latin America and the Caribbean receive their diagnosis at an advanced disease stage. This delayed detection severely compromises immune systems and substantially increases mortality risks from AIDS-related complications.
In preparation for World AIDS Day on December 1, 2025, PAHO is intensifying its call for comprehensive healthcare system reforms. The organization emphasizes that strategic expansion of testing accessibility, immediate initiation of antiretroviral therapy upon diagnosis, and robust prevention protocols represent the fundamental pillars for achieving the ambitious ‘Zero AIDS Deaths by 2030’ target.
Current epidemiological data paints a complex regional picture. While the Caribbean demonstrates encouraging progress with a 21% reduction in new HIV infections since 2010, Latin America confronts a troubling 13% surge during the same timeframe. Overall, AIDS-related fatalities have declined from 42,000 to 27,000 in Latin America and from 12,000 to 4,800 in the Caribbean, yet approximately 38,000 preventable deaths still occur annually throughout the Americas.
Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director, acknowledged the significant medical advancements while highlighting persistent challenges: “Our Region has made substantial strides in therapeutic innovation, including expanded access to long-acting medications and simplified treatment regimens. However, the battle continues. Every statistic represents a personal tragedy—a life interrupted, a family devastated.”
The analysis identifies critical gaps in current healthcare responses. An estimated 14-15% of HIV-positive individuals remain unaware of their status across the region. Among those diagnosed, approximately one-third present with advanced immunodeficiency, dramatically increasing their vulnerability to opportunistic infections including tuberculosis, cryptococcosis, and histoplasmosis.
Medical science offers powerful tools to reverse these trends. Modern antiretroviral therapies achieve viral suppression to undetectable levels, effectively eliminating sexual transmission risk. Prevention options have similarly evolved, with six-month injectable prophylaxis (lenacapavir) providing new alternatives to traditional daily medications.
PAHO is implementing a multi-faceted strategy with support from Unitaid, focusing on enhanced diagnostic capabilities for opportunistic infections, equitable treatment access, and strengthened data collection systems. The upcoming December 5 launch of the Regional Alliance for Ending AIDS in the Americas will further coordinate governmental, community, and international efforts toward eliminating HIV as a public health threat by 2030.