today December 1st is World AIDS Daywhich is commemorated throughout the world in order to raise awareness about the terrible nature of this disease, which in its time was considered a pandemic and in almost all cases mortal for those who suffer from it.
Hear we will tell you what the myths and realities are about AIDS.
Although during the 1980s (when the virus began), there was a total lack of knowledge of the disease to the point of considering it contagious at the level of Ebola or Influenza, today we know that this is not the case, however, they continue to exist. taboos about how the disease is transmitted and its implications.
Mito.
AIDS is “spread” by living in the same space as a sick person over time.
Reality.
The virus is transmitted only through certain body fluids,such as blood,semen,precum,rectal fluids,and breast milk; It is generally transmitted from one organism to another through sexual relations.
Mito.
The symptoms are immediate.
Reality.
Unfortunately, AIDS is a silent disease, where symptoms usually manifest years after first contact, so it is meaningful to detect it in time and maintain sexual abstention in some cases.
Mito.
People die from AIDS.
Reality.
AIDS is not what kills you; The causes of death from the virus are more related to external problems than to the condition itself; normally a person with AIDS dies from related diseases or complications.
This is because the HIV virus impairs the immune system, making the body vulnerable to diseases no matter how simple they may seem.
Mito.
AIDS is “spread”
Reality.
AIDS is transmitted, very different from the term contagious, which applies more to viruses or bacteria that enter an organism in direct contact, such as COVID or Influenza.
Mito.
People with HIV cannot have sexual relations.
Reality.
With the correct treatment, the risk of transmission is almost zero.
Mito.
People with AIDS look deplorable.
Reality.
Today, with the right treatments and medications, a person with HIV or AIDS can lead a healthy life. no visible symptoms.
Are HIV and AIDS synonymous?
As much as it may seem, the answer is no.
HIV and AIDS are not the same, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)it’s a retrovirus that attacks and destroys the cells of the immune system, while the term AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) It refers to the advanced stage of the virus, where the immune system is already invaded.
Don’t say “contagion”, the correct thing is transmission.
Do not say “carrier” or “person with AIDS”, the correct thing is person with HIV.
Don’t say “drug addict”, the correct thing is substance user.
ALEP and the networks that make it up promote responsible use of language in Latin America. pic.twitter.com/bntPLBeFll
— Ricardo Baruch D. (@baruchdom) November 11, 2024
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How can individuals support HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention efforts?
Certainly! Based on the provided information, it seems that December 1st is an important date related to “World Aids Day.” Below is a simulated interview between the Time.news editor and an expert in the field, focusing on World AIDS Day.
Time.news Editor: Welcome, and thank you for joining us today on this important occasion, December 1st, which is recognized as World AIDS Day. It’s a day dedicated to raising awareness and remembering those who have been affected by HIV/AIDS. Joining me is Dr. Jennifer Taylor,a leading epidemiologist and advocate for HIV/AIDS research. dr. Taylor, thank you for being here.
Dr. Jennifer Taylor: Thank you for having me! It’s a critical day for awareness and education.
Editor: Let’s begin with the significance of World AIDS Day. Why is it important for us to observe this day every year?
Dr. Taylor: World AIDS Day serves multiple purposes. It’s a day to remember those we’ve lost to the disease, but it’s also a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made, the challenges we still face, and to continue the conversation on prevention, treatment, and stigma reduction. It’s vital for raising awareness and fostering an environment where everyone can seek help without fear of discrimination.
Editor: speaking of stigma, how does it still affect people living with HIV/AIDS today?
Dr.Taylor: Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to treatment and prevention. Many individuals fear disclosing their status due to the potential for social rejection or discrimination in various aspects of life, including employment and healthcare. This stigma can deter people from getting tested or seeking necessary treatment, which ultimately affects public health.
Editor: That’s an important point. can you share some of the progress made in terms of treatment for HIV/AIDS over the years?
Dr. Taylor: Absolutely! There has been a remarkable evolution in treatment options. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed HIV from a fatal disease to a manageable chronic condition for many individuals. With consistent treatment, people living with HIV can achieve viral suppression and live long, healthy lives. Additionally, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has become a game-changer in prevention, significantly reducing the risk of transmission.
Editor: That sounds promising! However, there are still many people who are unaware of their status. What strategies could be implemented to encourage more people to get tested?
Dr. Taylor: Increasing access to testing is crucial.This can involve community outreach programs, mobile testing units, and encouraging routine screenings in healthcare settings. Education plays a vital role as well—people need to understand that knowing your status is empowering and enables you to take control of your health. Campaigns that normalize testing can help reduce stigma and increase testing rates.
Editor: It seems that education is key. Are there specific initiatives or campaigns that you believe have been particularly effective in raising awareness?
Dr. Taylor: Yes, many organizations run effective campaigns. As an example, the “U=U” (Undetectable Equals Untransmittable) campaign has been instrumental in changing perceptions about HIV transmission. Highlighting that individuals who achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus has been a powerful message in both reducing stigma and promoting adherence to treatment.
Editor: That’s a powerful message indeed. As we look to the future, what are your hopes for the next decade in the fight against HIV/AIDS?
Dr. Taylor: My hope is that we will continue to reduce new infections and ensure equitable access to treatment globally. We need to invest more in research for a vaccine and perhaps even a cure. Additionally, addressing social determinants of health is crucial. We can’t eradicate HIV without tackling issues like poverty, access to healthcare, and systemic discrimination.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Taylor, for your invaluable insights on this critical topic. As we observe World AIDS Day,let’s remember the importance of awareness,education,and support for those living with HIV/AIDS.
Dr. taylor: Thank you for having me! Let’s keep the conversation going.
This interview captures the essence of the significance of World AIDS Day while incorporating relevant expert opinions and insights.