UK’s Keir Starmer Urges World Leaders To Take HIV Test On Camera

Keir Starmer Becomes First G7 Leader to Publicly Take an HIV Test

Keir Starmer Advocates for Global HIV Testing Awareness

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has made history by becoming the first serving British prime minister and G7 leader to take a publicly documented HIV test. His office released footage of him completing a rapid home test in Downing Street, supporting a national campaign designed to encourage people across the UK to check their HIV status.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates that approximately 4,700 individuals in England are living with undiagnosed HIV. Increased testing plays a vital role in identifying these cases and reducing the spread of the virus.

UK Government’s Commitment to Ending HIV by 2030

In December 2024, Starmer reaffirmed his government’s dedication to eliminating new HIV cases in England by 2030. A detailed HIV action plan, outlining strategies to meet this ambitious target, is expected to be published later this year.

Following his test, Starmer encouraged world leaders to follow his example. Speaking to Britain’s Metro newspaper, he said:

“My task now is to talk to prime ministers and leaders across the world and say, you too should do it in your own country.”

He emphasized that knowing one’s HIV status is essential, as early detection ensures access to life-saving treatment and contributes to the global goal of eradicating new HIV transmissions by 2030.

Nationwide HIV Testing Initiative in the UK

The Terrence Higgins Trust, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Social Care, has been spearheading the UK’s week-long HIV testing initiative annually since 2012.

As part of the campaign, anyone in the UK can order a free HIV test at home. Two types of tests are available:

Rapid self-test kit – Delivers results in just 15 minutes.
Self-sampling kit – Sent to a laboratory for analysis and also screens for syphilis.

This initiative is a crucial step in raising awareness, increasing early detection, and ensuring access to HIV treatment.

For more details on HIV testing, visit Terrence Higgins Trust – a leading organization dedicated to HIV awareness and support.