What is AIDS?
AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). By damaging your immune system, HIV interferes with your body's ability to fight the organisms that cause disease.
How is HIV Transmitted?
HIV is transmitted through contact with infected body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The most common routes of transmission include:
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Sharing needles or syringes
- From mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding
- Blood transfusions or organ transplants from an infected donor
What are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of HIV vary depending on the stage of the infection:
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Acute HIV Infection: Flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and fatigue.
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Clinical Latency: Often asymptomatic, but the virus is still active and replicating at low levels.
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AIDS: Rapid weight loss, recurring fever, prolonged swelling of the lymph glands, and opportunistic infections such as
tuberculosis and
pneumocystis pneumonia.
How is AIDS Diagnosed?
AIDS is diagnosed based on specific clinical criteria, including a marked decline in
CD4 T-cell count and the presence of certain opportunistic infections or cancers. Standard tests for HIV infection include
ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and
Western blot tests to confirm the presence of HIV antibodies.
What are the Treatment Options?
While there is no cure for HIV/AIDS, antiretroviral therapy (
ART) can significantly control the virus. ART involves a combination of HIV medicines (called an HIV treatment regimen) taken every day. ART helps reduce the viral load, maintain immune function, and prevent the progression to AIDS.
How Can HIV/AIDS Be Prevented?
Preventive measures include:
- Using condoms during sexual activity
- Regular testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (
PrEP) for high-risk individuals
- Avoiding the sharing of needles and syringes
- Ensuring blood and blood products are tested for HIV
The Global Impact of HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS is a major global public health issue. Sub-Saharan Africa remains the most severely affected region, accounting for about two-thirds of the global total of new HIV infections. International efforts, including the work of organizations like
UNAIDS and the
World Health Organization (WHO), aim to reduce the spread of HIV and improve the lives of those living with the virus.
Living with HIV/AIDS
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives. It is crucial to maintain regular healthcare appointments, adhere to ART regimens, and adopt a healthy lifestyle. Support from healthcare providers, family, and community resources also plays a vital role in managing the disease.
