Synopsis
Introduction
AIDS - causes and diagnosis
Prevention
Need for awareness
AIDS Awareness Programs
Conclusion
Introduction:
Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome abbreviated as AIDS is a medical condition. A person is diagnosed with AIDS when their immune system is too weak to fight off infections. Today, there are an estimated 35.3 million people living with HIV and AIDS worldwide, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history. The Key tool to prevent the spreading of this disease is to create awareness among the people regarding its causes, prevention and treatment. The essay targets on outlining key points on the disease, its causes, its prevention, Need for Awareness Programs and various awareness programs in place today.
AIDS - causes and diagnosis :
The disease Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was identified in the year 1981 (December). Early epidemiological studies have established that it is a communicable disease transmitted through sexual contact or through blood and blood products. In 1983 Luc Montagnier at Pasteur Institute, Paris and Gallo at National Institute of Health (NIH) USA isolated the virus that caused AIDS.
AIDS, is caused by HIV. Some people may refer to AIDS as advanced HIV infection. HIV is a virus that gradually attacks immune system cells. As HIV progressively damages these cells, the body becomes more vulnerable to infections, which it will have difficulty in fighting off. It is at the point of very advanced HIV infection that a person is said to have AIDS. If left untreated, it can take around ten years before HIV has damaged the immune system enough for AIDS to develop.
The following test can be used to diagnose AIDS,
ELISA test (Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay) - a preliminary blood test used to detect HIV antibodies.
Western Blot is the confirmatory test
Prevention:
The following are the preventive measures that can be adopted to prevent spreading of AIDS,
1. Screening of blood and