ISQua’s 40th International Conference held from 24-27 September 2024 in Istanbul - World Patients Alliance

ISQua’s 40th International Conference held from 24-27 September 2024 in Istanbul

Arda Karapınar being WPA Euro regional steering committee member presented as a speaker at the ISQua 40th International Conference held from 24-27 September at the Istanbul Lutfi Kirdar International Convention and Exhibition Centre, presented a compelling session on the unspoken and neglected pandemic of HIV/AIDS. Arda Karapınar shared crucial insights into the intersection of health, stigma, and discrimination. Drawing from the latest field data, his presentation emphasized the necessity of not just addressing the medical aspects of HIV, such as scaling up Prep and treatment access, but also tackling the stigma that continues to hinder progress. He highlighted the urgent need to understand the complexity of stigma in the HIV landscape and stressed that true progress can only be made when systemic support—covering healthcare, housing, food security, and trauma—is integrated into HIV care. Karapınar’s thought-provoking quotes, such as “HIV is not just transmitted by sex. It’s transmitted by sexism, racism, poverty and homophobia," underscored the need for societal change in addition to medical intervention. His participation in the conference was a powerful reminder that addressing the social determinants of health is essential in the fight against HIV/AIDS.