In this World AIDS Day special, Chad and Steve deliver an open, heartfelt, and deeply informative conversation about HIV and AIDS. Steve shares his personal journey as a person living with HIV, exploring the importance of testing, treatment, and education. We dive into groundbreaking medical advancements, including the U=U (Undetectable Equals Untransmittable) campaign and PrEP, while also tackling stigma and the historical impact of the HIV/AIDS crisis on the LGBTQ+ community. This episode is packed with life-changing insights, resources, and a message of hope for ending the HIV epidemic.

Key Points/Highlights:

• World AIDS Day Themes: Discussion of the global theme "Take the Rights Path" and Australia's "It Starts With Me," highlighting rights-based approaches to ending the HIV epidemic.
• U=U Explained: Steve shares his experience of achieving an undetectable viral load through antiretroviral treatment, emphasising that undetectable equals untransmittable.
• HIV Testing Advocacy: The importance of regular testing, with a shoutout to free, at-home HIV test kits available at hivtest.au.
• Breaking Stigma: Tackling misconceptions and societal judgment faced by people living with HIV, especially in the bi+ community.
• PrEP and Prevention: An introduction to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), its effectiveness, and how it empowers individuals to prevent HIV transmission.
• Personal Stories: Steve opens up about his diagnosis journey, sharing how community support and modern medicine transformed his outlook on life.
• Historical Context: Reflecting on the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS crisis and the resilience of the queer community.

Resources & Links:

• HIV Self-Testing Kits: hivtest.au
• PrEP Access Now: pan.org.au
• BiSHH Study: bishhstudy.com
• Documentary: How to Survive a Plague (2012)
• Bi Positive Advocacy Network: bipan@napwha.org.au

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