The Importance of Education with HIV

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for HIV. Fortunately, it is preventable. The key to prevention lies in education. Education that includes how the transmission can transpire. Transmission can occur through blood, semen or vaginal fluids. Those parameters put individuals that are sexually active, abuse drugs and infected mothers and infants at risk. HIV education can cause a behavioral change that in turn will reduce the transmission rates. Behavioral changes like wearing a condom during sex can inhibit the transmission. In addition, providing support and education to those who suffer from drug addiction can create a behavioral change that will inhibit the ability of HIV transmission. Changes in behaviors like stopping the usage of used needles that could cause exchange in blood would impact the HIV epidemic.

HIV education can also include discussing the symptoms. The early stages of HIV, called the acute stage, is an asymptomatic period. Due to this, it is important to get tested early. Early detection is crucial in allowing the individual to live a longer, more comfortable life. This is possible through the compliance of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Individuals can take full advantage of the advancements of ART through early HIV detection. Nowadays, individuals can purchase at home HIV tests. These tests can be purchased at local drug stores. Having the ability to self-screen in the comfort of one’s home can increase the chances of early detection. Early detection is key for those who have contracted the infection. Educating those who do contract the infection is also vital because this can contain the spread. There may currently not be a cure for HIV, but there are practices that may be followed to limit the spread of this infection.

Ellis, Mary Ellen. “HIV vs AIDS: What’s the Difference?” Https://Www.healthline.com/Health/Hiv-Aids/Hiv-vs-Aids, 26 Apr. 2018, http://www.healthline.com/health/hiv-aids/hiv-vs-aids.

Leave a comment

Design a site like this with WordPress.com
Get started