World Health Organization (WHO) has released a new report on progress towards eliminating HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by 2030, highlighting major gains while warning that funding gaps and health inequalities continue to threaten progress.
The report reveals that 32 million people were receiving HIV treatment by the end of 2025, with new HIV infections down 42% and AIDS-related deaths down 57% since 2010. However, 9 million people still lack access to life-saving HIV treatment.
WHO also reported a 32% decline in annual hepatitis B infections and a 12% reduction in hepatitis C-related deaths since 2015. Despite this progress, viral hepatitis caused an estimated 1.3 million deaths in 2024, while STI rates and antimicrobial resistance continue to rise.
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“This assessment is more than a progress report; it is a practical guide for action for the second half of this strategy period,” said Dr Tereza Kasaeva, Director of WHO’s Department for HIV, TB, Hepatitis and STIs. “It highlights where countries are succeeding, where progress is stalling, and where investments can have the greatest impact. Together with our new consolidated HIV service delivery and HIV surveillance guidance, WHO is equipping countries with practical tools to strengthen programmes today and reach the people and communities who need them most.”
To accelerate progress, WHO is urging countries to strengthen integrated primary healthcare, expand digital health and disease surveillance, improve access to innovative diagnostics and prevention tools, and empower community-led healthcare initiatives.
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“This report tells two stories. It demonstrates what is possible when countries invest in health, communities and science. But it also shows how quickly progress can be undone with funding disruptions, humanitarian emergencies and persistent inequalities,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Over the next five years, we must build integrated, resilient health systems that reach those furthest behind.”
