The global burden of HIV.

The global burden of HIV remains a formidable challenge, affecting millions. Despite significant progress in understanding, treatment, and prevention , HIV/AIDS continues to exert a substantial impact on personal and public health, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the prevalence is highest. HIV not only poses a direct threat to the well-being of individuals but also contributes to social and economic disparities. Approximately 38 million people worldwide are living with HIV, with millions unaware of their status. Stigma and discrimination still hinder testing, starting and staying on treatment. Access to antiretroviral therapy has improved, yet disparities persist, with marginalized communities often facing barriers to essential health care services. Efforts to reduce new HIV infections and transmission include comprehensive prevention strategies, education, and increased access to testing and treatment. Addressing social determinants, reducing stigma, and ensuring equitable access to health care remain crucial to reach the ambitious goal of ending AIDS by 2030.

HIV-related Merkel cell carcinoma: A report of three cases from the UK.

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) of the skin is a rare, aggressive and often fatal neuroendocrine skin cancer. The incidence of MCC has significantly increased in the last decades. Factors that have been associated with the development of MCC include infection with Merkel Cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), ultraviolet exposure, hematologic malignancies and immunosuppression.We present three cases of patients living with HIV who were diagnosed with MCC. HIV cases associated with MCC have been rarely reported and to our knowledge, not yet before in the UK.