Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a serious condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). AIDS affects the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases. HIV is transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, and can be passed from one person to another during unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Despite the availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART), which can help manage HIV and prevent AIDS, around 38 million people worldwide live with HIV/AIDS, and approximately 690,000 people died of AIDS-related illnesses in 2019 alone. HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who use drugs, sex workers, and people living in poverty.
It’s important to know your HIV status and get tested if you suspect you may have been exposed to the virus. Early detection and treatment can help prevent the progression of HIV to AIDS and improve quality of life. Preventing the spread of HIV is also vital, and can be achieved through practicing safe sex, using clean needles for injection drugs, and engaging in harm reduction strategies.
The fight against HIV/AIDS continues, and while there is no cure for the virus, progress has been made in improving access to treatment, prevention methods, and reducing stigma. It’s important that we continue to support those living with HIV/AIDS and work towards a future where no one loses their life to this preventable and treatable disease.
Despite the availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART), which can help manage HIV and prevent AIDS, around 38 million people worldwide live with HIV/AIDS, and approximately 690,000 people died of AIDS-related illnesses in 2019 alone. HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who use drugs, sex workers, and people living in poverty.
It’s important to know your HIV status and get tested if you suspect you may have been exposed to the virus. Early detection and treatment can help prevent the progression of HIV to AIDS and improve quality of life. Preventing the spread of HIV is also vital, and can be achieved through practicing safe sex, using clean needles for injection drugs, and engaging in harm reduction strategies.
The fight against HIV/AIDS continues, and while there is no cure for the virus, progress has been made in improving access to treatment, prevention methods, and reducing stigma. It’s important that we continue to support those living with HIV/AIDS and work towards a future where no one loses their life to this preventable and treatable disease.