A Guide to World AIDS Day: Its Significance and How Does AIDS Affect Your Life?
Key Takeaways
- World AIDS Day is observed every year globally on December 1
- The World AIDS Day theme is End Inequalities. End AIDS
- Fatigue and sweating at night are a few symptoms of AIDS
AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is a condition that is the final stage of infection caused by HIV. The full form of HIV is human immunodeficiency virus, and it is capable of attacking your immune system. This virus destroys a specific white blood cell that helps your body fight infections. As a result, your immune system is weakened, and you may develop other health complications too.
According to WHO, approximately 36 million people so far have lost their lives due to HIV-related infections [1]. AIDS occurs only when your immune system gets completely damaged due to HIV. It does not mean that an HIV infection always causes this condition. Depending on the severity of damage caused by the virus, you develop AIDS.
HIV spreads in the following ways:
- Unprotected sex
- Contaminated needles
- Mother to child transmission during breastfeeding or pregnancy
Raising awareness is an important step to eradicate this condition globally. With this view, people across the globe observe World AIDS Day on December 1. To know more about the importance of this day and how to celebrate World AIDS Day, read on.
Additional read: Sexual Health Awareness Month: How Important is Sexual and Reproductive Health?
Why is World AIDS Day Important?
This day is observed globally to support millions of people who are battling with this disease. It is also celebrated to mourn the lives lost due to AIDS. World AIDS Day also recognizes the global efforts taken to prevent the spread of HIV. This day came into existence in the year 1988 and since then, WHO has declared December 1 as World AIDS Day. This day also serves a reminder to all of us that HIV is still prevalent in our society and has not been eradicated yet. People are becoming aware of its symptoms and treatment since this day is the most significant healthcare day observed globally.
Here are a few symptoms of AIDS that may initially seem like flu [2].
Profuse sweating at night
Swelling in the lymph nodes
Excessive fatigue
Aches in muscles
Body rash
These are the first signs of HIV infection that may subside within four weeks. It is called an acute HIV infection that can progress to chronic form, if not treated properly. The virus has the capability to weaken your immune system, and this can cause AIDS. During AIDS, your immune system is completely damaged. Doing a blood test can help in the diagnosis of AIDS.
Though there is no cure for AIDS, certain medicines can be used to treat this condition. The method of treatment is called ART or antiretroviral therapy. With its help, it may be easier to manage a chronic HIV infection. Most importantly, it ensures that this virus does not spread from one person to the other. Healthy lifestyle and proper medical care can help you lead a quality life despite an HIV infection.
What are Different Stages of HIV Infection?
There are three stages of HIV infection namely:
Stage 1 or acute HIV infection
Stage 2 or chronic infection
Stage 3 or AIDS
Stage 1 is a contagious stage in which HIV is found abundantly in the blood. It is during this stage where you may experience flu-like symptoms. Stage 2 is known as symptomatic infection in which active HIV may multiply at slow pace. This stage is also transmissible and if not treated, it can progress to stage 3. Stage 3 is the most severe form of infection. Here, the immune system is totally damaged, and you are prone to a large number of infections. This is a highly infectious stage too.
Additional read: How to Know If You are Experiencing Gonorrhea Symptoms?
How is World AIDS Day Observed?
The World AIDS Day 2021 theme is End Inequalities. End AIDS [3]. This day emphasizes reducing growing inequalities so that HIV treatment is accessible to everyone equally. Several fundraising programs and awareness campaigns are conducted to create awareness among people.
What Are the Various World Aids Day Activities You Can Do?
During World AIDS day, a large number of activities are conducted. Concerts, rallies, discussions and debates are a few common activities. In schools and colleges, World AIDS Day activities for students are organized that help in educating young minds about the transmission of HIV.
With the efforts taken by healthcare organizations across the world, World AIDS Day has gained prominence. The importance of HIV is now well recognized, thanks to their tireless efforts. There is a gradual increase in people becoming aware of the symptoms and causes of AIDS as well.
If you notice any symptoms of concern, you can contact top specialists on Bajaj Finserv Health via a quick online doctor consultation. This way, you can act fast and get the care you need. You can even avail affordable health insurance plans to get treatment without delay or compromise. Browse Aarogya Care plans online and manage medical expenses with ease as you educate yourself about HIV AIDS.
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids
- https://medlineplus.gov/hivaids.html
- https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-aids-day/world-aids-day-2021
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