SINGAPORE: To commemorate World Aids Day, which falls on December 1, a new exhibition here is showcasing the photographic works of 10 people, who include HIV and AIDS patients as well as volunteers.

Voluntary organisation Action for AIDS (AFA) said the exhibition reflects the realities of people living with HIV/AIDS and their personal outlook on life.

It hopes that the exhibition will help to dispel some of the fears surrounding the disease.

Professor Roy Chan, president, AFA said: "There has been rising awareness over the years and we have seen some changes in the attitudes among Singaporeans towards the issue of HIV and AIDS.

"But these are incremental steps and there is a long way to go to dispel the ignorance and fear surrounding the disease and to overcome the discrimination that remains largely prevalent in our society.

"It is ironic that living in a modern and globalised city-state, with high standards of education, many Singaporeans still harbour discriminatory attitudes towards those affected by HIV infection.

"The issue on the affordability of HIV medication is a big one and I am pleased that it has been raised at this exhibition.

"Since the late 1990s, with the introduction of effective medications, HIV infection has become a chronic and treatable condition. Persons living with HIV are now able to lead relatively normal and productive lives, contributing both to the workforce and the community.

"However, anti-HIV medications need to be taken indefinitely and are expensive. We need to come up with new and better solutions to increase access and affordability to these medications."

The exhibition will run from November 20 to 29 at the VivoCity mall. - CNA/vm