
Roger-Luc Chayer (Image: generated by AI / Gay Globe)
For nearly 50 years, HIV has circulated in various forms around the world and continues to mutate despite significant advances in medical research. When it first appeared in the West, HIV quickly progressed to AIDS, and in the absence of targeted medications, infected individuals rapidly succumbed to numerous opportunistic diseases and unusual complications.
Medical research has made great strides, particularly thanks to government funding and the support of large foundations, such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. These supports have facilitated the development of antiretroviral drugs to extend patients’ lives, progressing through combination therapy, which helps better control the proliferation of the virus, to the latest advancements such as injectable PrEP and long-acting injectable treatments.
LGBTQ+ individuals over 40 are fully aware of the devastation this disease has caused in the past, both within the community and society at large. It is estimated that at one time, nearly 30% of gay men died from it.
According to ChatGPT, gay men have occupied a wide variety of jobs and professions throughout the ages, contributing significantly across many fields. In arts and culture, they have often made their mark as artists, painters, sculptors, photographers, graphic designers, writers, poets, and playwrights.
They have also excelled as choreographers, dancers, actors, directors, musicians, composers, and singers, while holding influential roles as artistic directors. In media and entertainment, many have distinguished themselves as journalists, radio and television hosts, film and television directors, producers, screenwriters, and fashion photographers. In academia and research, some have become professors, researchers, historians, archivists, and librarians, often highlighting unique perspectives in social sciences, history, and literature.
Health professions have also been areas of engagement, with roles as doctors, psychologists, nurses, and social workers, particularly for their contributions in the fight against HIV/AIDS and in supporting LGBTQ+ communities. Finally, in the fashion, advertising, and public relations sectors, as well as in business and corporate worlds, gay men have also left a lasting impact.
The Drama of Younger Generations
Unfortunately, many young gay men under 35 have grown up in the presence of treatments for HIV. With recent medical advancements, many believe, in good faith, that HIV is no longer a deadly disease and that it is treated similarly, or almost, to most other sexually transmitted infections.
This is reflected on social media, on dating apps like Gay411 or Grindr, and in meeting places for gay men. HIV is rarely mentioned there; fear has diminished, and sexual behaviors demonstrate a certain recklessness: condoms are often neglected, chemsex sometimes integrates into sexual relationships, and testing is overlooked. Many of these young individuals are convinced that HIV no longer poses a mortal danger. Yet, the virus continues to progress and mutate, infecting more and more people, not only in less developed countries.
AIDS Mortality Worldwide in 2024
UNAIDS, a United Nations organization, emphasizes that AIDS-related deaths could decrease significantly if resources were strengthened and human rights were protected. In Europe, regions such as Eastern Europe and Central Asia are witnessing an increase in new infections, further complicating efforts to combat HIV/AIDS in this area. In France, Belgium, and Germany, HIV continues to infect more people.
Canada: According to Health Canada, it is estimated that 1,848 new HIV infections occurred in the country in 2022, a 15% increase compared to the 2020 estimate (1,610). Every day, 5 people are infected. New HIV infections occur more frequently among certain populations (notably among gay or bisexual men) than in the general population.
According to the Quebec National Institute of Public Health, after a decline in cases between 2019 and 2021 related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of cases increased between 2021 and 2022. A total of 917 cases were recorded, and in 2024, several health specialists have raised the alarm about the rapid progression of the disease. It is estimated that 62,790 people were living with HIV in Canada at the end of 2020 and that 103 deaths were attributed to HIV.
The Importance of Information
Currently, HIV continues to spread and cause deaths, primarily within LGBTQ+ communities. It is imperative to discuss this issue, even if governments do not do enough. In 2024, HIV remains a cause of preventable mortality, affecting young individuals whose lives could have been saved through better awareness of the situation. Prevention remains the best way to save lives. The use of condoms is an extremely effective barrier against the virus, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can prevent approximately 93% of infections. The combination of condoms and PrEP can save lives and offer a better future for young people in our countries.