We all know that AIDS is a lethal disease that kills thousands every year. But do you know how it works? Perhaps if you had a better understanding of how the disease kills, you would have a newfound respect for it.

AIDS is an acronym for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. It is caused by the acquisition of the human immunodeficiency virus, commonly known as HIV, which is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood and semen. HIV literally attacks the immune system, which is responsible for fighting sickness in the human body. CD4+ T-cells, which are vital to immune system function, are targeted and destroyed by HIV. As HIV reduces the T-cell count in the body (to less than 200) it is left defenseless against infection and the patient is then diagnosed with AIDS. The individual becomes extremely susceptible to infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis and other opportunistic contagions. Immunocompromised patients who contract infections have much higher mortality rates than patients with healthy immune systems.

Currently, there are a number of antiviral medications available for those with HIV/AIDS, however, there is no known cure and medication only slows its progression. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) first identified AIDS on June 5, 1981. At that time, there were only five males known to have the disease. Since that time, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are currently just over 33 million people living with AIDS worldwide.

Now that you are better informed on the AIDS process, do your part to educate others and protect yourself. Knowledge is power. –delgie jones II



AIDS Special:

1.  nelson l. adams III, m.d.
2.  debra fraser-howze
3.  method to the madness: a look at hiv prevention
4.  national black HIV/AIDS awareness day
5.  the science of AIDS

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