Image retrieved from https://canfar.com/about-us/staff/
According to the HIV Surveillance Report of 2019, 62050 Canadians live with HIV, 2400 individuals acquire HIV each year, 6 individuals acquire HIV everyday and 1 individual every four hours. What can be done to mitigate these escalating numbers?
CANFAR’s Origins
Founded on October 26, 1987, The Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR) was created by four friends: Dinah Koo, Van Beltreme, Jack Creed & Robert Mang. The organization’s establishment was further supported by philanthropist and chair Bluma Appel alongside three physicians on board to assess CANFAR’s research projects. Together, the work of these individuals advocate solidarity through the AIDS global impact, in the face of HIV’s continued prevalence in Canada.
Bluma Appel elected as CANFAR chair in 1989. Image retrieved from https://canfar.com/about-us/
CANFAR’s Mission
At the peak of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the late 1980s to 1990s, CANFAR’s establishment was groundbreaking during the ongoing stigma. The organization aims to end Canada’s HIV/AIDS epidemic by initiating events that promote education surrounding prevention, testing, and treatment. Increased and widespread awareness assisted in stopping the stigma around HIV/AIDS.
CANFAR’s Impact and Legacy
As a continuously growing organization, CANFAR’s impact has multiplied over the past decades. Canadian universities and colleges have adapted their own CANFAR chapters, including our very own club at McMaster! Its expansion has given students and individuals the chance to contribute to changes made in support of HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness.
CANFAR hosts annual events nationwide including the Red Ribbon Campaign, Eight Ball and subcommittees such as the Junior Committee, all in which promote outreach in diverse communities. To find out more about CANFAR’s upcoming events and how to participate, visit https://canfar.com/events/.
CANFAR’s first Red Ribbon Campaign, hosted by its volunteers. Image retrieved from https://canfar.com/support-us/world-aids-day/
History of HIV/AIDS, World AIDS Day, and CANFAR McMaster Coffeehouse
What is HIV/AIDS?
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that targets the immune system, specifically white blood cells (CD4 T-cells), and weakens the body over time. The virus enters the body by transferring certain body fluids, such as blood. White blood cells targeted by the virus are destroyed, leading to a decline in white blood cell count. This eventually leads to the body being unable to fight against infections and other diseases.
HIV has three stages: acute HIV infection, chronic HIV infection, and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). People in the earlier stages may display symptoms such as fever, tiredness, headaches, and more. Meanwhile, people with AIDS may experience chills, chronic fever, swollen lymph, and more.
History of HIV/AIDS
The disease is suspected of being transmitted from chimpanzees to humans in the 1930s. The first known case of AIDS in the US was documented in 1981, with HIV being identified in 1984. Later on, the first case of HIV was discovered through a blood sample obtained from a man from the Belgian Congo in 1959.
What are some possible treatment options?
Treatments are available to control early HIV, but there is currently no cure. Antiretroviral therapies (ARTs) control HIV while the body recovers. Therapies usually include a combination of medications prescribed based on a person's condition. Through the use of ARTs, the transmission of HIV can also be controlled. It is important to note that ARTs do not cure HIV/AIDS but work towards controlling the virus.
Many forms of HIV/AIDS cures are still being tested and researched. Possible treatments currently being developed include vaccines, gene therapy, and more.
World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day (December 1st) was founded by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1988. It is a global health day for everyone to support and acknowledge those fighting against HIV/AIDS. On December 1st, people can show their support through fundraisers and red ribbons. Similarly, McMaster CANFAR hosts an annual coffeehouse to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS research!
CANFAR McMaster Coffeehouse 2022
Picture taken by Amirhossein Moghtader
To show support for World AIDS Day, MacCANFAR hosts an annual coffeehouse fundraiser to support HIV/AIDS research in Canada!
This year the event included performances from talented singers, storytellers, and musicians, as well as games such as Bingo and Trivia! Through the successful event, MacCANFAR raised a total of over $700!
Thank you so much to all the performers and attendees for supporting HIV/AIDS research and CANFAR McMaster!
Missed the coffeehouse? No worries. Make sure to check out @maccanfar on Instagram to learn more about upcoming events, HIV/AIDS, and more!
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