Acquired immune deficiency syndrome

Answer 1

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the advanced stage of infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 T cells (also known as T helper cells), which are crucial for coordinating the immune response. If untreated, HIV can lead to a gradual decline in these cells, resulting in AIDS, where the body becomes significantly more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Key Points about AIDS:

1. Transmission: HIV is primarily transmitted through:

   • Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
   • Sharing needles or syringes.
   • From mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
   • Blood transfusions with infected blood (rare in areas with robust screening).

2. Symptoms: The symptoms of AIDS can vary widely but commonly include:

   • Severe weight loss.
   • Prolonged fever.
   • Night sweats.
   • Fatigue.
   • Persistent lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes).
   • Recurrent infections or opportunistic infections like pneumonia or tuberculosis.

3. Diagnosis: AIDS is diagnosed using various tests, including:

   • HIV antibody tests.
   • CD4 cell count.
   • Presence of opportunistic infections or certain cancers.

4. Treatment: While there is currently no cure for HIV/AIDS, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage the virus, allowing individuals with HIV to live long, healthy lives. ART reduces the viral load to undetectable levels, significantly decreasing the risk of transmission.

5. Prevention: Preventive measures include:

   • Safe sex practices (use of condoms).
   • Regular HIV testing and monitoring for at-risk populations.
   • Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at high risk.
   • Avoiding sharing needles.

6. Stigma and Support: People living with HIV/AIDS may face social stigma, which can affect their mental health and willingness to seek treatment. Support groups, counseling, and community resources can provide essential assistance.

7. Global Impact: AIDS remains a significant public health issue worldwide, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Efforts to raise awareness, provide access to treatment, and reduce transmission continue to be critical in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

If you have specific questions or need detailed information on a particular aspect of AIDS, feel free to ask!