WHAT IS AIDS?

AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is the final stage of an HIV

(Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection. It occurs when the immune system
becomes severely damaged due to the destruction of CD4 T-cells, which are
crucial for fighting infections. When the immune system is weakened to the
point where the body becomes vulnerable to life-threatening infections or
certain cancers, the person is diagnosed with AIDS. It’s important to note that
not everyone with HIV will develop AIDS, especially if they receive proper
medical treatment.
HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is transmitted through contact with certain
body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk.
Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, but with the use of antiretroviral
therapy (ART), individuals with HIV can live long, healthy lives and prevent the
progression to AIDS.
AIDS is characterized by the presence of opportunistic infections (infections
that take advantage of a weakened immune system) or certain cancers that
the body would typically be able to defend against. Common symptoms of
AIDS include rapid weight loss, fever, extreme tiredness, and recurrent
infections. However, advances in medicine have significantly improved the
prognosis of people living with HIV, allowing them to manage the virus and
delay the onset of AIDS.

History of AIDS
The history of AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is closely linked to
the discovery and understanding of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), the
virus responsible for causing the disease. The timeline of AIDS spans several
decades of research, medical advancements, and global health challenges.
Below is an overview of the key milestones in the history of AIDS:
Early Cases and Emergence (1960s-1970s)
 1970s (Unrecognized Outbreaks): HIV is believed to have originated
from a type of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) found in
chimpanzees in Central Africa, which crossed into humans through
hunting and consumption of bushmeat. This process, called zoonosis,
 likely occurred in the early 20th century. The virus remained unnoticed
for decades because its symptoms were not immediately identified.

Discovery of AIDS (1981-1983)

 1981 (Recognizing a New Disease): In June 1981, the U.S. Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an unusual cluster of
rare infections (Pneumocystis pneumonia) and cancers (Kaposi's
sarcoma) among young gay men in Los Angeles. These infections were
typically seen only in people with severely weakened immune systems.
This was the first formal recognition of what would later be known as
AIDS.
 1982 (Naming the Disease): By 1982, doctors had observed similar cases
in other groups, including intravenous drug users and hemophiliacs,
indicating that the disease was not limited to any one population. The
CDC formally named the disease AIDS—Acquired Immunodeficiency
Syndrome.
 1983 (Identification of HIV): Researchers in France, led by Dr. Luc
Montagnier, discovered the virus that causes AIDS. The virus was initially
called LAV (Lymphadenopathy-Associated Virus). Around the same time,
Dr. Robert Gallo’s team in the U.S. also identified a virus that caused the
disease, which they called HTLV-III (Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus type
III). In 1986, the virus was officially named HIV, and both teams were
credited with its discovery.
Global Spread and Recognition (1984-1990s)
 1985 (Blood Test for HIV): The first blood test to detect HIV antibodies
was developed, enabling doctors to diagnose HIV infections and monitor
the progression of the virus. This was a significant breakthrough,
allowing for early detection and better management of the disease.
 1986 (The WHO Takes Action): The World Health Organization (WHO)
recognized HIV/AIDS as a global health crisis. The disease was spreading
rapidly in many parts of the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa,
where the highest number of cases were being reported.
  1987 (First HIV Treatment): The first antiretroviral drug, AZT
(zidovudine), was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) for the treatment of HIV. Although AZT had limited effectiveness,
it marked the beginning of efforts to manage HIV infection with
medication.
 1990s (The Global Epidemic): By the early 1990s, HIV/AIDS had spread
to nearly every corner of the globe, with significant numbers of cases
reported in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. AIDS-related deaths soared,
and the epidemic became one of the most devastating public health
crises in history. The stigma associated with HIV/AIDS also grew,
particularly in communities where the disease was prevalent among
marginalized populations.
Purpose of Creating This Project on AIDS
The purpose of creating this project on AIDS is multi-faceted, with several key
goals:
1. Raise Awareness and Understanding: One of the primary objectives is to
increase awareness about AIDS and HIV. Many people still lack a deep
understanding of how HIV affects the body, how it is transmitted, and
the importance of prevention and early treatment. By exploring the
biology of HIV, the progression to AIDS, and the impact of the disease on
individuals and communities, this project helps to fill that knowledge
gap.
2. Promote Prevention: HIV/AIDS is a preventable disease, and educating
others on how to reduce the risk of transmission is crucial. The project
aims to inform people about the modes of transmission (such as
unprotected sex, sharing needles, and mother-to-child transmission) and
the preventive measures available (such as safe sex practices, testing,
pre-exposure prophylaxis, and harm reduction programs).
3. Highlight Global and Social Impact: HIV/AIDS is not just a medical issue;
it has significant social and economic implications. This project seeks to
emphasize how the disease affects different communities, especially
vulnerable populations, and regions with high prevalence. It also
addresses the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with
HIV/AIDS, which is often a barrier to accessing treatment and support.
HIV--- The Virus behind AIDS.

What is HIV?:
How Does HIV Work?
HIV is primarily spread through contact with certain body fluids such as blood,
semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The virus is most
commonly transmitted through:
 Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
 Sharing needles or other injection drug equipment
 Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth or breastfeeding
 Exposure to infected blood, such as through transfusions or accidents
with contaminated needles
Once HIV enters the body, it seeks out CD4 T-cells, which are critical in the
immune response. The virus uses these cells to replicate itself, producing more
copies of the virus that further attack the immune system. Over time, as the
number of healthy CD4 cells decreases, the immune system becomes weaker,
and the body becomes more susceptible to infections and other illnesses.

Stages of HIV Infection

1. Acute HIV Infection (2-4 weeks after exposure): This is the primary
stage, where the virus rapidly multiplies in the body. It may cause flu-like
symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, but many
people do not notice these symptoms. The virus is highly contagious
during this stage.
2. Clinical Latency Stage (Chronic HIV): In this stage, the virus is still active
but replicates at a much slower rate. People may not show symptoms
for several years, especially if they are on antiretroviral therapy (ART).
Without treatment, however, this stage can last for a decade or more,
during which the immune system gradually weakens.
 3. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome): This is the final stage of
HIV infection. If HIV is left untreated, it progresses to AIDS. At this point,
the immune system is severely compromised, and the body becomes
highly vulnerable to opportunistic infections (infections that occur when
the immune system is weakened) or certain cancers, which can be life-
threatening.

Can HIV Be Cured?

Currently, there is no cure for HIV, but the virus can be controlled with proper
medical treatment. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a combination of drugs that
reduce the viral load (the amount of virus in the blood) to undetectable levels.
With ART, people living with HIV can live long, healthy lives and prevent the
progression to AIDS. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in managing HIV
effectively and reducing the risk of transmission to others.

HIV vs. AIDS

It's important to understand that HIV and AIDS are not the same thing. HIV is
the virus that causes the disease, while AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection
when the immune system is severely weakened. Not everyone with HIV will
develop AIDS, especially with the right treatment and care.

In conclusion, HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, and if left
untreated, can progress to AIDS, a condition that severely compromises the
body’s ability to fight infections. While there is no cure for HIV, it can be
managed effectively with medication, enabling people with the virus to live
longer, healthier lives.

The Role of the Immune System and AIDS

The immune system plays a crucial role in defending the body against
infections and diseases. However, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
specifically targets and weakens the immune system, which leads to AIDS
(Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the final stage of HIV infection.
Below is an explanation of the immune system’s normal function and how it is
affected by HIV, ultimately leading to AIDS.

The Role of the Immune System

The immune system is responsible for identifying and attacking harmful
invaders like viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. It is made up of various
components that work together to protect the body:
1. White Blood Cells (Leukocytes):
o T-cells: These are a type of white blood cell that play a central role
in immune response. There are different types of T-cells:
 Helper T-cells (CD4 cells): These cells coordinate the
immune response by signaling other immune cells to attack
pathogens. They are crucial in defending the body against
infections.
 Killer T-cells (CD8 cells): These cells directly destroy
infected cells or cancer cells.
o B-cells: These cells produce antibodies that bind to pathogens and
mark them for destruction.
o Macrophages: These cells engulf and digest foreign invaders, such
as bacteria and dead cells.
2. The Lymphatic System: This system includes lymph nodes, spleen, and
bone marrow, which house immune cells and help detect and respond
to infections.
3. The Inflammatory Response: When the body detects infection or injury,
it triggers inflammation, which helps to fight infections by attracting
immune cells to the affected area.
4. Antibodies: Produced by B-cells, antibodies are proteins that bind to
foreign antigens (such as viruses or bacteria) and neutralize them.

How HIV Affects the Immune System

HIV specifically targets the CD4 T-cells (helper T-cells), which are vital for
coordinating the immune response. HIV enters these cells and replicates within
them, gradually destroying them over time. As a result, the body's ability to
recognize and fight off infections becomes severely compromised.
1. Infection of CD4 T-cells:
HIV attaches to the CD4 receptor on the surface of these immune cells,
using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to convert its RNA into
DNA, which integrates into the host cell’s DNA. This enables HIV to
replicate and produce more copies of itself, destroying the CD4 cells in
the process.
2. Decrease in CD4 T-cell Count:
As HIV continues to replicate, the number of CD4 T-cells in the
bloodstream decreases. A normal CD4 count ranges between 500 to
1,500 cells per cubic millimeter of blood. When the CD4 count drops
below 200 cells/mm³, the immune system is considered severely
compromised, which is one of the criteria for diagnosing AIDS.
3. Immune System Deterioration:
As the number of healthy CD4 T-cells decreases, the body becomes
unable to mount an effective immune response. This makes the
individual vulnerable to opportunistic infections (infections that occur
more easily when the immune system is weakened) and certain cancers.

Progression from HIV to AIDS

The progression from HIV infection to AIDS happens in stages, and the decline
of the immune system is central to this progression:
1. Acute HIV Infection (Initial Phase):
This is the first stage after exposure to the virus, where the virus
multiplies rapidly in the body. The immune system responds by
producing antibodies against HIV, but the virus is also attacking CD4 T-
cells. During this stage, individuals may experience flu-like symptoms,
but they might not be aware they are infected. HIV is highly contagious
at this point.
2. Clinical Latency (Chronic HIV Infection):
In this stage, the virus is still active but replicates at lower levels. The
 individual may not experience any symptoms for many years, especially
if they are on antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, even in the
absence of symptoms, HIV is still damaging the immune system by
continuing to destroy CD4 T-cells.
3. AIDS (Final Stage):
If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS, where the immune system is
severely weakened, and the individual is at risk of developing life-
threatening infections and cancers. At this stage:
o The CD4 count drops below 200 cells/mm³.
o The body becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections, such as
tuberculosis, pneumonia, and fungal infections, as well as certain
cancers like Kaposi’s sarcoma and lymphomas.
o Without treatment, AIDS is fatal. However, with ART, many
individuals can prevent or delay the progression to AIDS and live
long, healthy liveSymptoms and Diagnosis of AIDS (Acquired
Immunodeficiency Syndrome)
o AIDS is the final stage of infection with HIV (Human
Immunodeficiency Virus). It occurs when the immune system
becomes severely weakened due to the depletion of CD4 cells,
which are crucial in defending the body against infections.
o Symptoms of AIDS
o The symptoms of AIDS vary depending on the individual and the
type of opportunistic infections or cancers they develop. The
symptoms of AIDS are usually severe and can include:
o Rapid Weight Loss (often unexplained)
o Recurrent Fever and Night Sweats
o Extreme and Unexplained Tiredness
o Prolonged Swelling of the Lymph Glands in the armpits, groin, or
neck
o Severe and Persistent Diarrhea
o Sores or Lesions in the mouth, anus, or genitals (often due to
infections like candidiasis or herpes)
 o Pneumonia or frequent respiratory infections (e.g., tuberculosis,
pneumocystis pneumonia)
o Memory Loss, confusion, or neurological problems
o Skin Rashes or sores
o White Spots or Lesions on the tongue or in the mouth (indicative
of infections like candidiasis)
o Cancers (e.g., Kaposi's Sarcoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma)
o These symptoms indicate that HIV has progressed to the AIDS
stage, and the immune system is severely compromised, allowing
opportunistic infections to take hold.
Diagnosis of AIDS
The diagnosis of AIDS is made through a combination of HIV testing and
clinical evaluation.
1. HIV Testing
HIV is diagnosed using blood tests that detect the virus or the body’s immune
response to it. These tests include:
 ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay): The first screening test
for HIV infection. If positive, it is followed by a confirmatory test.
 Western Blot: A confirmatory test for HIV.
 Rapid HIV Tests: Can be done with a fingerstick or oral swab for quicker
results.
2. CD4 Count
 A CD4 count is a key test in diagnosing AIDS. CD4 cells are a type of
white blood cell that helps the immune system fight off infections. A
normal CD4 count is typically between 500 and 1,500 cells per cubic
millimeter (mm³) of blood.
 A diagnosis of AIDS is made when the CD4 count drops below 200
cells/mm³.
3. Viral Load Test
  A viral load test measures the amount of HIV RNA in the blood. A high
viral load indicates active replication of the virus.
4. Presence of Opportunistic Infections or Cancers
AIDS is also diagnosed if the person develops specific opportunistic infections
or cancers that are rare or more severe in people with HIV, such as:
 Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)
 Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis
 Kaposi's Sarcoma
 Tuberculosis (TB)
 Toxoplasmosis
5. Clinical Diagnosis
A doctor may diagnose AIDS based on clinical symptoms and the presence of
specific opportunistic infections or cancers, in addition to laboratory tests
Primary Routes of AIDS Transmission
1. Unprotected Sexual Contact
o Vaginal or Anal Sex: The most common mode of transmission is
through unprotected sexual contact, especially anal sex, where
the mucous membranes in the anus and rectum are more
vulnerable to tears, allowing the virus to enter the bloodstream.
 o Oral Sex: HIV transmission through oral sex is possible, but it is
less common than vaginal or anal sex. The risk increases if there
are cuts or sores in the mouth or gums, or if there is contact with
ejaculate or menstrual blood.
2. Sharing Contaminated Needles or Syringes
o HIV can be transmitted by sharing needles or syringes that have
been contaminated with the blood of an infected person. This
includes the use of injectable drugs, tattooing, or body piercings if
proper sterilization is not followed.
3. Blood Transfusions or Organ Transplants
o Although rare in many countries due to rigorous screening of
blood products, HIV can be transmitted through contaminated
blood transfusions or organ transplants from an infected donor.
4. Mother-to-Child Transmission (Perinatal Transmission)
o During Pregnancy: HIV can be transmitted from an HIV-positive
mother to her child during pregnancy through the placenta.
o During Childbirth: The virus can be passed during delivery if the
baby comes into contact with the mother’s blood and fluids.
o Through Breastfeeding: HIV can also be transmitted through
breast milk, which is why HIV-positive mothers are advised not to
breastfeed unless they are on effective ART (antiretroviral
therapy) to lower the risk of transmission.
5. Exposure to Contaminated Blood Products
o This is a risk for individuals who receive medical treatments or
products that involve blood transfusions, clotting factor
concentrates, or other blood-derived products if they are not
properly screened for HIV.
AIDS Transmission Does NOT Occur Through:
1. Casual Contact: HIV is not transmitted through everyday social contact
such as hugging, kissing, shaking hands, or sharing food or drinks.
2. Air or Water: HIV is not spread through the air or in water (e.g.,
swimming pools).
 3. Insect Bites: HIV cannot be transmitted through insect bites, such as
from mosquitoes or other insects.
4. Toilet Seats: HIV is not spread by using toilet seats, doorknobs, or other
shared surfaces.
5. Coughing or Sneezing: HIV is not transmitted through respiratory
droplets.

Treatment and Management of AIDS (HIV)

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is caused by HIV (Human
Immunodeficiency Virus), and while there is no cure for HIV/AIDS, it can be
effectively managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART helps to suppress
the virus, maintain a healthy immune system, and prevent the progression to
AIDS. Early diagnosis and proper management of HIV are crucial for prolonging
life and improving quality of life.
1. Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
ART is the cornerstone of HIV treatment. ART involves a combination of
medications that work together to block different stages of the HIV lifecycle,
preventing the virus from multiplying and spreading in the body.
  What ART Does:
o Lowers HIV viral load: ART reduces the amount of HIV in the
blood, often to undetectable levels (undetectable =
untransmittable, or U=U). This reduces the risk of transmission to
others.
o Preserves CD4 cells: ART helps protect the immune system by
preserving the number of CD4 cells, which are essential for
fighting infections.
o Prevents progression to AIDS: By maintaining a low viral load and
a healthy immune system, ART significantly slows the progression
of HIV to AIDS.
 ART Regimens:
o ART typically consists of a combination of 3 or more antiretroviral
drugs from different classes, including:
 Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs): Block
the reverse transcriptase enzyme HIV uses to replicate.
 Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs):
Bind to reverse transcriptase and stop HIV from replicating.
 Protease Inhibitors (PIs): Block the protease enzyme, which
HIV needs to mature and become infectious.
 Integrase Inhibitors: Block HIV from integrating into the
host’s DNA.
 Entry Inhibitors: Prevent HIV from entering healthy cells.
 Adherence: For ART to be effective, strict adherence to the prescribed
regimen is necessary. Missing doses can lead to drug resistance, making
treatment less effective.
2. Regular Monitoring of HIV Progression
 CD4 Count: Regular CD4 cell counts help monitor immune system
health. A CD4 count below 200 cells/mm³ indicates AIDS.
 Viral Load Test: Measures the amount of HIV in the blood. Effective ART
results in an undetectable viral load.
  Routine Medical Tests: To monitor liver, kidney, and heart health, as
ART medications can sometimes cause side effects affecting these
organs.
Challenges in HIV/AIDS Management
 Access to Treatment: In many regions, especially in low-income areas,
access to ART and healthcare services may be limited.
 Drug Resistance: Inconsistent adherence to ART can lead to the
development of drug-resistant HIV strains, making treatment more
challenging.
 Side Effects: Some ART medications can cause side effects, such as
nausea, fatigue, liver damage, or kidney issues, which may require
changes in the treatment regimen.
Global Impact of AIDS (HIV/AIDS)
AIDS, caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), has had a profound and
enduring impact worldwide, affecting millions of people across various regions
and causing significant health, social, and economic consequences. While the
advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed HIV/AIDS from a fatal
disease to a manageable chronic condition, the global effects of the epidemic
continue to be widespread.
1. Global Statistics of HIV/AIDS
As of 2023, the global impact of AIDS is still considerable:
 39 million people globally are living with HIV.
 1.3 million new HIV infections occurred in 2022.
 630,000 AIDS-related deaths were recorded in 2022.
 28 million people are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), helping
reduce the progression to AIDS and improving life expectancy.
HIV/AIDS remains one of the most significant global health challenges, despite
remarkable advancements in treatment and prevention. While antiretroviral
therapy (ART) has transformed HIV from a fatal disease into a manageable
chronic condition, millions of people still face the ongoing impacts of HIV/AIDS,
particularly in high-prevalence regions like Sub-Saharan Africa.
The epidemic has profound social, economic, and health-related
consequences, placing immense strain on healthcare systems, economies, and
families. Discrimination, stigma, and barriers to accessing care remain major
obstacles to controlling the spread of HIV and ensuring that those living with
HIV can lead healthy, productive lives. Vulnerable populations, such as women
and girls, MSM, sex workers, and injecting drug users, continue to face
heightened risks and inadequate healthcare access.
Despite these challenges, the global response to HIV/AIDS has made
substantial progress through global initiatives like PEPFAR, UNAIDS, and the
Global Fund, which have significantly expanded access to treatment and
prevention programs. The world has set an ambitious goal to end the AIDS
epidemic by 2030, aligning this goal with the UN Sustainable Development
Goals.
Achieving this goal will require continued progress in ensuring universal access
to prevention, testing, and treatment services, particularly in marginalized and
high-risk populations. It will also require addressing gender inequalities,
reducing stigma, and improving mental health support for those living with
HIV.
In summary, while the fight against HIV/AIDS has seen significant strides in
reducing deaths and infections, much work remains. With ongoing
collaboration, innovation, and commitment, the world can make continued
progress toward ending the AIDS epidemic and improving the lives of millions
affected by HIV worldwide.