Cuba has demonstrated remarkable success in its battle against HIV/AIDS, reporting substantial improvements in key health indicators that position the nation as a regional leader in disease management. Recent data reveals that the Caribbean island has achieved a 39% reduction in HIV-related mortality alongside a 14.5% decrease in new infections, bringing annual diagnoses down to 1,708 cases.
Dr. Jacqueline Sánchez Fuentes, head of the STI Control Strategy at Cuba’s Ministry of Public Health, attributes these achievements to the country’s comprehensive national program and sustained political commitment. The current HIV-positive population stands at 35,373 individuals, a figure that has remained stable due to the program’s effectiveness.
The nation’s health system has prioritized universal access to antiretroviral treatment while intensifying preventive measures. Current objectives include achieving 95% coverage in both diagnosis and treatment protocols, alongside expanded prophylaxis and combined prevention strategies targeting key populations.
These medical advances coincide with Cuba’s parallel efforts to combat social stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. The dual approach addresses both clinical and societal aspects of the disease, particularly relevant as the global community observes World AIDS Day with its focus on reducing inequalities.
Cuba’s progress stands in contrast to the broader global landscape. According to WHO and UNAIDS estimates, worldwide HIV prevalence has increased by 27% since 2010, with approximately 40.8 million people currently living with the virus. The global community records 1.3 million new infections annually and approximately 630,000 AIDS-related deaths each year.
Despite these challenging statistics, international efforts have yielded positive results, with a 40% reduction in new infections and a 54% decrease in mortality compared to 2010 levels. In the Americas, where an estimated 4.2 million people live with HIV, Cuba continues to strengthen its healthcare response, reaffirming its commitment to universal health access and quality patient care.