AIDS: Africa's Biggest Problem
Abstract Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has been reported in cases throughout the world. This paper describes what AIDS is by definition, a lists ways the virus is transmitted. In addition to general information given about AIDS, this paper addresses the problem of AIDS, what is being done to control the virus, how it applies to supply and demand, and the effect of AIDS on the United States and Africa.
What is HIV/AIDS and what does it do to the body?
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the result of an infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This virus attacks certain cells of the immune, nervous, and other systems impairing and disabling their proper function. HIV infection may cause damage to the brain and spinal cord, causing encephalitis, nerve damage, and difficulties in thinking (i.e., AIDS dementia), behavioral changes, poor circulation, headache, and stroke. AIDS may also affect the nervous system. Neurological symptoms may be mild in the early stages of AIDS, but may become severe in the final stages. Complications vary widely from one patient to another. The disease is transmitted predominately by heterosexual activity, exposure to blood transfusions and un-sterilized needles, and from infected mothers to their newborns, and will continue to spread rapidly where economic and cultural factors favor these modes of transmission.
There is currently no cure for AIDS but recently developed, experimental treatments appear very promising. Some symptoms and complications may improve with treatment. For example, a drug called Antidementia may relieve confusion and slow mental decline, and infections may be treated with antibiotics. The prognosis for individuals with AIDS in recent years has improved significantly because of new drugs and treatments, and educational and preventive efforts.
How big is the problem?
HIV/AIDS has been recognized as a global health problem. In sub-Saharan Africa, compared to the
What is HIV/AIDS and what does it do to the body?
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the result of an infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This virus attacks certain cells of the immune, nervous, and other systems impairing and disabling their proper function. HIV infection may cause damage to the brain and spinal cord, causing encephalitis, nerve damage, and difficulties in thinking (i.e., AIDS dementia), behavioral changes, poor circulation, headache, and stroke. AIDS may also affect the nervous system. Neurological symptoms may be mild in the early stages of AIDS, but may become severe in the final stages. Complications vary widely from one patient to another. The disease is transmitted predominately by heterosexual activity, exposure to blood transfusions and un-sterilized needles, and from infected mothers to their newborns, and will continue to spread rapidly where economic and cultural factors favor these modes of transmission.
There is currently no cure for AIDS but recently developed, experimental treatments appear very promising. Some symptoms and complications may improve with treatment. For example, a drug called Antidementia may relieve confusion and slow mental decline, and infections may be treated with antibiotics. The prognosis for individuals with AIDS in recent years has improved significantly because of new drugs and treatments, and educational and preventive efforts.
How big is the problem?
HIV/AIDS has been recognized as a global health problem. In sub-Saharan Africa, compared to the
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