Over 7,140 registered cases in Singapore since initial documentation in 1985. Globally there are estimates 34 million people who have the virus. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history. Today, scientific advances have been made to HIV treatment and we understand so much more about the condition. Despite this, each year in Singapore more than 400 are diagnosed with HIV. People do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people with the condition. World AIDS Day is important because it reminds us, the community that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education,