Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a collection of symptoms and infections, caused by HIV, which damage the immune system. Aids is the most advanced stage of HIV. HIV gradually destroys the body’s power to fight infections and certain cancers; nearly every organ system is affected. People who have AIDS may develop life-threatening diseases from viruses or bacteria that rarely make healthy people sick. AIDS was first recognized in 1981 in New York City and was identified in 1983. After the diagnosis of AIDS is made, the average survival time has been estimated to be 2-3 years. (Source 1)

There are treatments for AIDS and HIV to slow down the virus, however there is no known cure. HIV is transmitted through contact of a mucous membrane or the bloodstream with another bodily fluid containing HIV. This transmission can come in the form of anal, vaginal or oral sex, blood transfusion, contaminated hypodermic needles, exchange between mother and baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding, or any other contact with bodily fluids. (Source 3) Approximately one-quarter to one-third of all untreated pregnant women infected with HIV will pass the infection to their babies. (Source 2) Some of the common symptoms of AID’s include the following: Seizures, lack of coordination, Difficulty swallowing, confusion, Severe and persistent diarrhea, Vision loss, vomiting, Weight loss and extreme fatigue, and Severe headaches. (Source 1)

More than 25 million people have died of AIDS since 1981. People under 25 years old account for half