It has been 23 years since scientists gave a name to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that began ravaging the homosexual community in the 1980s. Early on, HIV was a death sentence. The virus typically developed into AIDS, or acquired immune deficiency syndrome, the advanced state of HIV.

While no cure has been found for HIV or AIDS since the virus was discovered in the mid-1980s, there have been advances in treatment that have slowed its progression, but the epidemic is far from over.

Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 1.1 million people in the U.S. have diagnosed or undiagnosed HIV/AIDS and the Connecticut Department of Public Health reports that about 10,860 of them reside in Connecticut.

Worldwide, almost 34 million people are living with the virus or AIDS and when doctors diagnose new cases, the infected are likely to be minorities or women.

The virus is transmitted from person to person through the exchange of body fluids such as semen, blood or breast milk. The mistaken perception persists that sexual contact is the only way infected individuals spread the disease. Sharing needles, breast-feeding, even childbirth, can result in HIV.

Understanding the virus, and how it is passes from person to person, is the best way to prevent it.

Tuesday is World AIDS Day 2009, a perfect opportunity to educate oneself about HIV/AIDS and help bring attention to a cause that continues to require understanding and support for those dealing with the disease. A major health problem remains, and individuals must continue to make safe lifestyle decisions and avoid unprotected sex.

In southeastern Connecticut, the Alliance for Living will conduct its annual vigil and march beginning at 5 p.m. Tuesday from the Soldiers and Sailors Monument at State and Bank streets in New London.