Since identifying Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), many scientists have researched the virus. The evidence gathered helped combat the debilitating effects of the virus in humans. HIV attacks the immune system and has led to the death of many people. It also made many children orphans. Its prevalence prompted much HIV research in Africa.
HIV causes infected victims to become immune-deficient. The virus gradually damages immune cells, weakening their function. The victims’ body defense becomes unable to fight infections, making them susceptible to diseases and even opportunistic infections. Within 2 to 15 years, the condition progresses to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).
HIV Drug Resistance
Though HIV/AIDS is a global issue, it has taken a massive toll on Africa. Fortunately, worldwide action and HIV research in Africa helped in combatting the condition. The mortality rate has reduced due to improved health care. Antiretroviral therapy achieved significant positive results. Sadly, there are still HIV-infected people in Africa who have no access to the drug treatment plan.
Antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) suppress the virus, improving the health of people living with HIV. The World Health Organization (WHO) and some humanitarian organizations helped millions of HIV-infected people to receive antiretroviral therapy, ART. The treatment has reduced the spread of the virus in the region.
However, the proliferation of HIV drug resistance threatens antiretroviral therapy. Over time, the situation will severely affect Africa’s health, economy, and societies. The region is likely to record new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths. Hopefully, international scientists and HIV research in Africa can help solve HIV drug resistance.
What Are the Factors That Contributed To the Spread of HIV Virus in Africa?
Compared to other regions of the world, HIV/AIDS has been a humanitarian disaster in Africa. Here are the common causes of the high spread of the virus.
Low-quality Medical Care
Many locations in Africa don’t have access to quality health care. They lack hospitals and health professionals. As a result, the health systems in this region can’t effectively handle the fight against HIV/AIDS. However, more people are getting tested for the virus. Many HIV-infected individuals are also receiving antiretroviral therapy.
Poverty
Many Africans are living in extreme poverty. They can barely afford the necessities of humans nor access paid health care services. As a result, protective measures like condoms have become a luxury.
Lack of Public Awareness
Despite the HIV education and prevention campaigns later launched in Africa, some people don’t have adequate knowledge of the virus. Some governments in the region ignored public enlightenment about HIV. The neglect allowed the virus to spread unopposed for years.
Sexual Behavior
Sexual practices like promiscuity and polygamy in this region contributed to the spread of HIV. In addition, prostitution encourages sex with multiple partners, increasing the spread of the virus. Sexual violence against females is widespread in some parts of Africa. Many women got infected with the virus due to being raped by an HIV-infected individual.
Stigma and Taboo
In many parts of Africa, people regard HIV/AIDS as taboo. Infected individuals are excommunicated from their communities. Due to the stigmatization, many infected people kept their condition secret and knowingly spread the virus.
Global health organizations have significantly helped in reducing mortality resulting from HIV infection. However, more effort will help to resolve the issue of HIV drug resistance. HIV research in Africa will help fix this problem.
