Message from Dr. Marc Ouellette on World Aids Day

More than 30 years into the epidemic, HIV/AIDS remains a pressing threat to the health of individuals and communities around the world, and right here in Canada. World AIDS Day, which is observed on December 1st each year, is an important time to remember the toll this virus has and continues to take on society. It is also important, on this day in particular, to acknowledge the tireless efforts of so many advocates, service providers, researchers and people living with HIV/AIDS, who dedicate themselves to improving lives of those affected.

Over the past year there have been numerous positive developments and a renewed energy internationally that, collectively, we can change the course of the HIV epidemic and create an AIDS free world. At CIHR, funding has been approved for a number of collaborative teams to pursue a range of important new lines of research. A few days ago, the Honorable Leona Aglukkaq, Federal Minister of Health, announced funding for two Collaborative Centres for HIV/AIDS Community-Based Research as well as four multi-disciplinary teams investigating issues of aging and comorbidities, such as neurological decline and cardiovascular disease, in people living with HIV/AIDS. This funding will add to the excellent work Canadian researchers are already undertaking with their collaborators and partners. For information on the impact of some CIHR-funded HIV/AIDS research please see the CIHR November/December web profiles.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the many partners and stakeholders that have worked closely with the CIHR HIV/AIDS Research Initiative in the development and implementation of our research funding programs and other activities. Our work is strengthened and made more relevant to people living with and at risk of HIV/AIDS through these collaborations.

The scientific questions and social issues that need to be addressed are complex but with the continued dedication of so many individuals and organizations we will continue to make progress on many fronts. The CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity remains committed to contributing to these efforts and looks forward to working closely with many of our stakeholders and partners in the coming year. 

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