Mendoza joins The Night of Testing to fight HIV in the country.

Mendoza joins the eighth edition of La Noche de los Testeos, a national event aimed at promoting rapid and free HIV testing. This initiative, driven by AHF Argentina, seeks to provide information and guidance to anyone interested in knowing their health status regarding HIV. The importance of this initiative lies in the alarming number of late diagnoses that have been recorded in the country, putting the health and quality of life of thousands of Argentinians at risk. According to data provided by AHF Argentina, 45% of new HIV diagnoses are late cases. This means that many individuals are not accessing testing in a timely manner, complicating not only their own health but also that of the community as a whole. With a total of 140,000 people living with HIV in Argentina, it is crucial to encourage testing to detect the virus early. The most recent epidemiological bulletin, published in December 2024, reveals that provinces such as Jujuy, Salta, La Rioja, San Luis, and the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires have a higher incidence of HIV. This situation suggests the need to implement specific campaigns in these regions to reach the most vulnerable populations at risk of the virus. The situation is especially alarming among men, who represent the highest number of new cases across all age groups, particularly those aged 20 to 34. This data highlights the importance of creating strategies that address the needs and realities of this age group, which is more exposed to the risks associated with HIV transmission. Natalia Haag, Director of Prevention and Testing at AHF Argentina, emphasizes the need to develop new and innovative strategies to reach the entire sexually active population, regardless of gender or age. Haag stresses that it is essential to eliminate the stigma surrounding HIV, as it represents a significant barrier for many people seeking and accessing the health services they need. Early diagnosis is key to individual and collective health. "Accessing a diagnosis early allows for linkage to the health system and receiving comprehensive care, preventing other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)," says Haag. She also warns about the urgency of ensuring accessible treatments for all individuals in order to curb the spread of STIs and improve the quality of life for those living with HIV. In this context, La Noche de los Testeos not only serves as an opportunity for HIV testing but also aims to raise awareness about the importance of prevention and treatment. The participation of health professionals providing information and guidance during this event is crucial for dispelling myths and fostering an environment of openness and support for those facing this condition. With the holding of this event in Mendoza, it is hoped that more people will be encouraged to get tested, thus contributing to the early detection of cases and better public health management regarding HIV. Awareness and education are powerful tools in the fight against this epidemic, and it is imperative that they remain at the center of health policies. Finally, it is necessary for all of us to commit to supporting these initiatives and to promoting an open dialogue about HIV and STIs. Only through collaboration and education can we confront the challenges posed by this disease and build a healthier future for everyone. La Noche de los Testeos is an invitation to act and to take care of our health and that of our loved ones.