HIV/AIDS Demystified : A Comprehensive Overview
Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention of HIV/AIDS
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
Healthnews: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a medical condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4+ T cells (also called helper T cells), which are essential in fighting infections and diseases.
As HIV destroys more CD4+ T cells, the body becomes less able to fight off infections and diseases. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS, which is the most advanced stage of the infection. At this stage, the immune system is severely damaged, and the individual is at high risk for developing opportunistic infections (infections that would not usually affect a person with a healthy immune system).
AIDS is typically diagnosed when an individual with HIV has a CD4+ T cell count below 200 cells/mm³ or when they develop one or more opportunistic infections. There is currently no cure for HIV or AIDS, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can slow down the progression of the disease and help individuals with HIV live longer, healthier lives. It is essential to get tested and treated for HIV to prevent the development of AIDS and to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
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HIV-AIDS Unveiled Understanding the Virus // Dreamstime |
According to research how many cases in the world
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that approximately 38 million people worldwide were living with HIV, and 690,000 people died from AIDS-related illnesses in 2020.
It is important to note that these numbers are constantly changing due to advancements in testing, treatment, and prevention efforts. Additionally, there are still many people who may not know they are living with HIV or who may not have access to testing or treatment.
Therefore, it is essential to continue raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, promoting HIV testing and prevention strategies, and improving access to HIV treatment and care to reduce the impact of the disease globally.
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Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4+ T cells, which are essential in fighting infections and diseases.
HIV is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common modes of transmission are:
- Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
- Sharing of needles or other injection drug equipment with an infected person
- Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
It is important to note that HIV is not transmitted through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing food and water. HIV cannot be transmitted through mosquito bites, air, or water.
Prevention strategies such as practicing safe sex, using clean needles, and taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help prevent the transmission of HIV and reduce the risk of developing AIDS.
HIV-AIDS Unveiled Understanding the Virus // Vista create |
Treatment of HIV/AIDS
While there is currently no cure for HIV or AIDS, there are effective treatments available that can help manage the virus and slow down the progression of the disease. The primary treatment for HIV is antiretroviral therapy (ART), which involves taking a combination of medications that target the virus at different stages of its lifecycle.
ART works by reducing the amount of virus in the body (viral load) to undetectable levels, allowing the immune system to recover and preventing the development of opportunistic infections. With proper and consistent use of ART, people living with HIV can live long, healthy lives and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
It is important to note that ART is not a one-size-fits-all treatment and may have side effects or require adjustments over time. Additionally, accessing and adhering to ART can be a challenge for some individuals due to factors such as stigma, discrimination, and access to healthcare.
Therefore, ongoing efforts are needed to improve access to ART, address barriers to treatment adherence, and develop new therapies and prevention strategies to ultimately cure HIV/AIDS.
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Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a medical condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4+ T cells. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS, which is the most advanced stage of the infection.
However, with proper and consistent use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV can manage the virus and reduce the risk of developing AIDS or transmitting the virus to others.
Prevention strategies such as practicing safe sex, using clean needles, and getting tested for HIV regularly are also important in reducing the spread of HIV and ultimately working towards a world without HIV/AIDS.
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