World AIDS Day: How many days after unsafe sex will it be known if someone has contracted HIV? Learn 5 shocking facts related to AIDS.

According to WHO, as of 2022, approximately 39.0 million people are living with HIV, including 1.5 million children. It is estimated that around 23.49 lakh people in India were affected in 2019. Doctors believe that treatment for HIV/AIDS is possible, but it should be taken regularly.

Every year, World AIDS Day is observed on December 1st. The purpose of celebrating this day is to increase awareness among people about this dangerous and life-threatening disease. There is no doubt that awareness about HIV/AIDS has increased in the past few decades, but people are still falling prey to it despite being aware.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 39.0 million people were living with HIV at the end of the year 2022. Among them, 1.5 million are children aged 0-14 years. According to a report from the Press Information Bureau (PIB), it is estimated that around 23.49 lakh people in India were affected by HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) in 2019.

AIDS is a life-threatening disease caused by the HIV virus. On this occasion, Dr. Dinesh Kumar Tyagi, Additional Director, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Greater Noida, and Dr. Umang Agarwal, from PD Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre in Mumbai, are sharing some alarming facts about HIV/AIDS that you should be aware of.

What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?

Doctor Dinesh Kumar Tyagi explained that HIV is a type of virus, and when it enters the body, it is called HIV infection. If timely intervention or treatment is not administered, the disease gradually progresses, and the body's ability to fight infections diminishes. This leads to a condition known as AIDS. In summary, HIV is an infection, and when it takes a severe form, it is called AIDS. In other words, the basic cause of AIDS is the HIV virus.

Look into the health discussion on the causes, prevention, and measures for AIDS.

Causes of AIDS: The main cause of AIDS is infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This virus attacks the body's immune system, weakening it and making the individual highly susceptible to other diseases and infections.

Prevention of AIDS:

1. Safe Sex: Practicing safe sex, especially using condoms in new relationships, is always crucial.

2. Avoiding Substance Abuse: Paying attention to the proper use of alcohol and drugs is also important, as behaviors related to substance abuse can be associated with HIV.

Treatment for HIV Infection:

1. Antiretroviral Medications: Medications prescribed by a doctor can assist in fighting against HIV.

2. Appropriate Medical Care: Regular medical care and support can effectively manage health issues related to HIV.

To obtain information related to HIV and AIDS, individuals should seek guidance from their doctors and make decisions based on accurate information.

Is the treatment of HIV/AIDS possible?

According to Dr. Umang Agarwal, it is a myth that there is no cure for AIDS. In reality, continuous treatment for HIV helps control the virus. Consistent treatment can prevent progression to AIDS, and discontinuing treatment in between may lead to a recurrence of AIDS. If HIV treatment is initiated promptly, there are several medications available nowadays that can prevent the progression to AIDS.

How long can a person with AIDS live?

According to Dr. Dinesh, there are many effective medications available today that can prevent the progression of HIV. If your CD4 count increases to normal levels within a year, and the HIV virus load becomes undetectable, then your chances of living are as high as those of a normal individual.

How will someone know if they have HIV/AIDS?

HIV can start after engaging in unsafe sex, sharing unsterilized needles, or coming into contact with infected blood. Many times, symptoms may not be noticeable. Initially, several symptoms may be felt, but key symptoms include:

- Cold

- Sore throat

- Ulcers

- Body pain

- Muscle pain

- Fatigue

These symptoms can last for about one and a half months. In the case of AIDS, the patient begins to be affected by all kinds of infections, and at this stage, numerous symptoms can be observed.

When should one go to the doctor?

The doctor has advised that if you suspect you have had unsafe sex, or if you have been exposed to unsafe blood or needles, you should immediately undergo an HIV test. There are tests available that can provide results within 18 to 40 days, indicating whether your report is negative or positive.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. It cannot be considered as an alternative for any medication or treatment. Always contact your doctor for more information.