Thirty years since first case of HIV diagnosed

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VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Thirty years ago today, researchers reached a turning point in identifying the mysterious virus we now know as HIV.

Patrick McDougall of the Dr. Peter AIDS Centre says while there have been several subsequent breakthroughs in the treatment of the virus, it remains an enormous health care challenge.

“The issue is really engaging people in HIV treatment, engaging people in their health care… In British Columbia, there are a number of folks who are positive and don’t know it. There are a number of folks that need to have treatment services that meet their needs.”

In those 30 years, BC has become a leader in HIV research and support thanks to the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS and the Dr. Peter Centre.   

At least 25 million people have died from the effects of the virus world-wide, and 33 million people are living with HIV today.

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