HIV/AIDS Prevention
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus which attacks the immune system. It can cause AIDS. Acquired Immune Deficiency syndrome, also known as HIV, can lead to serious immunodeficiency. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than 1 million Americans are infected with HIV. Nearly 75% of these people are not aware they are infected. Around 38 million people were affected by HIV/AIDS in 2018, with most new cases being found in sub-Saharan Africa.
How can HIV/AIDS be caused?
HIV can be transmitted by contact with bodily fluids infected, including blood, semen and vaginal fluids. HIV is spread by unprotected sexual contact, such as sharing intravenous drug needles, and from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. There is no treatment for HIV/AIDS. However, antiretroviral therapies (ART) can reduce the virus levels and improve patient quality of life.
HIV/AIDS Treatment
Treatment for HIV/AIDS is dependent on how severe the condition is. Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), is the recommended treatment for most HIV-positive people. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a combination medicine that reduces the virus' amount in the body and prevents it from spreading. This will help to maintain a healthy immune system and lower the chance of getting AIDS. Lifestyle modifications like eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep can all help keep your body in good health and lower the chance of developing complications.
Latest HIV/AIDS Developments
Recent years have seen remarkable progress by scientists and researchers in fighting HIV/AIDS. The World Health Organization (WHO), in 2017 released guidelines that recommend all HIV-positive people to start treatment right away, regardless of how high their CD4 (which is a measurement of immune system strength). Based on research , this guideline uses evidence to show that timely treatment can lower the chance of contracting AIDS or other serious diseases associated with HIV.
Research has also shown Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), can help prevent HIV infection. People at highest risk for HIV infection should take PrEP every day. PrEP is very effective at reducing HIV transmission risk. However, it requires frequent doctor visits and strict compliance to the prescribed medication.
HIV/AIDS Prevention:
HIV/AIDS can be prevented. Safe sex is the best way to avoid HIV/AIDS infection. This includes using condoms, limiting your number of partners and practicing safe sex. Use clean needles when injecting intravenous drug users and refrain from sharing with others. Pregnant women need to be tested for HIV to lower the risk of passing it to their child.
You can also avoid contact with HIV-infected bodily fluids such as blood, urine, or semen and get tested regularly for HIV to stop the spread. People should also be alert to the signs and symptoms of HIV, and get medical help if necessary.
Conclusion
HIV/AIDS can be fatal and serious, but there are ways to prevent it. HIV/AIDS can be prevented by practicing safe sex and using clean needles. Regular testing will also help reduce the risk. The best ways to control the disease are early treatment, and strict adherence to medication.
HIV/AIDS is a grave global issue. However, with the right prevention and treatment it can be reduced and the lives of people affected.