During the celebration of World HIV Combat Day, the reigning Miss Universe Paulina Vega Dieppa, went for a HIV test in New York on December 1’ 2015. She took the juncture to promote the message of AIDS prevention, particularly amongst young people.

The beauty queen reflected: "As Miss Universe 2014 I would advise you to know your HIV status. I will continue to promote awareness about HIV and AIDS, and will be focusing on women's health and reproductive right even after the reign."

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In the event coordinated by Latino Commission on AIDS, Paulina said it is very significant to discuss the continuing threat of HIV virus. With the alarming concern, Paulina stressed: "It's important to get tested for HIV. If you are HIV negative, you can do everything in their power to stay free of HIV."

As Latinos, the largest minority groups in the U.S. are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, Paulina was deeply concerned with the matter. The terrific impact of the epidemic continues to affect the health and wellbeing of Latinos across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Latinos in the U.S. represent 18.3% (U.S. Census Bureau) of the population but account for 21.3% of the new HIV infections (according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, CDC). Shocked and dejected by the very fact, Paulina expressed: “It is very important that people understand that HIV is a manageable chronic condition if you receive treatment and stay in care.”

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During her reign, Paulina effectively utilized her platform to bring up the awareness for HIV victims. Paulina will be crowning her successor on 20’ December 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Who do you think will succeed Paulina Vega as the next Miss Universe?