BBC News MEXICO,
AUGUST 4, 2008: A global conference on HIV/Aids opened in Mexico City, yesterday August 3, a quarter of a century after the disease first became widely known. Figures released ahead of the meeting reveal that the number of people with the condition around the world has gone down slightly overall. However, infection rates are still rising in some countries and access to the right treatment is also an issue. Across the world 33 million people are affected by the syndrome. The six-day conference was preceded by an awareness march, a photo exhibition and other events. About 20,000 scientists, government officials and campaigners are in Mexico City for the event. The Salesian Missionary Day 2008 focuses on the issue of HIV/Aids.