AIDS/HIV & Its Effects on Popular Culture

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A life-changing pandemic has effected millions across the world. It has plagued many people addicted to drugs, many who practice unsafe sex, or even the innocent health care worker. Some people may sadly consider their lives extinguished upon contraction of the in-curable virus, others will not let the infection rule their lives. However, the infection is no long-er considered a death sentence in contrast to what many may believe. Many people are igno-rant of the virus and continue to believe what was shared many years ago. What is HIV/AIDS, and what is its history? What is its effects on the body? How can it be, not cured, but treated? Who is at higher risk for a possible infection? Are there any possible cures in the making? How may it be prevented? How does HIV/AIDS effect popular culture and society? These and many other questions will be answered in the following essay, along with other useful beneficial knowledge and history.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a lentivirus, meaning that it takes long periods of time after the initial exposure to show symptoms. Human Immunodeficiency Virus is contract-ed through blood-borne pathogens, and HIV is the abbreviation for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Human Immunodeficiency Virus cannot be contracted solely via urine, saliva, or sweat. Human Immunodeficiency Virus may only be contracted from exposure to these fluids if blood is present. The main way that Human Immunodeficiency Virus is contracted is through seminal or vaginal secretions, blood, cerebral spinal fluid, and the breast milk of an infected individual. Once the Virus enters the body it starts to replicate itself, making more and more Human Im-munodeficiency Virus cells, the cells hide itself and may lay d...

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...medicines, there are still many negatives regarding taking antiretroviral. The medicines tend to be very expensive and most insurance companies will avoid paying for them. In addition, the antiretroviral drugs all have many unwanted side effects, and once a patient is started with the medication regimen he or she will not be able to miss a dose or an exacerbation of AIDs symptoms may occur. Many alternative treatments have been tried including, stem cell use and bone marrow transplants, but none has had ade-quate research for approval and classification of being a possible cure. It is also proven very important for the patient to be followed medically, by an infectious disease specialist; and to attend appointments and blood testing regularly. By following the provider’s advice and orders, the patient may live a strong and healthy AIDS free life.
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