Acquired Immunodeficiency Disorder (AIDS) is among the largest global health issues of the current time. It was first identified in the 1980s in the beginning, AIDS is the final and most serious stage of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection. It is a condition where the immune system becomes seriously damaged and is unable to combat infections or illnesses. Although AIDS isn’t caused by any particular external cause other than HIV and its causes, the methods by which people contract HIV, and the psychological, social and biological factors that cause it are essential to comprehending the actual causes of AIDS.

What Causes of AIDS?

To clarify, AIDS is caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). AIDS does not occur as a condition that is acquired by accident. It occurs over time in those suffering from HIV especially those who are not treated or not properly treated medically. When we talk about the underlying reasons behind AIDS it is actually investigating the causes and mechanisms for HIV disease as well as the factors that speed up the process of disease.

The Role of HIV in Causing AIDS

HIV is an infection that attacks an immune system in particular its lymphocytes CD4+ that constitute white blood cell that are essential to defend against infection. As time passes, HIV destroys these cells which weakens the body’s capacity to fight off infections. If the amount of CD4 cells is below a certain threshold, or if a person develops various opportunistic illnesses or tumors, the illness can be classified under AIDS.

Stages of HIV Infection

The acute HIV Disease :- Occurs within 2-4 weeks following exposure. The symptoms are flu-like.
Chronic HIV Infection (Latency Stage) :- The virus is active, however it is reproduces in low numbers. The stage can last for many years.
HIV :- The final stage that is characterized by a seriously impaired immune system.

The most important reason for AIDS is not being treated or properly managed HIV infected.

How Does HIV Spread? Major Transmission Routes

Although HIV is the only biological reason for AIDS it is crucial to be aware of exactly how it gets transmitted. Knowing how transmission routes work will help to prevent the spread of new infections and reduce the chance of developing AIDS.

Unprotected Sexual Contact :- The most prevalent method of HIV transmission across the globe is via unprotected vaginal or oral sexual relations in a HIV-positive body. In sex, HIV is able to enter the body via the mucous membranes of the rectal or genital regions.
Sharing Needles or Syringes :- The people who inject drugs and use needles together are at a high risk of developing HIV. Infected needles can introduce the virus into bloodstreams.
Mother-to-Child Transmission :- HIV is transmitted by a mother who is infected to her child during childbirth, pregnancy, or during breastfeeding. But, with the right medical treatment, this type of transmission is generally preventable.
Blood Transfusions and Organ Transplants :- While it is rare in countries that have strict screening for blood, HIV can still be passed on through transfusions of blood contaminated with HIV as well as organ transfers.
Occupational Exposure :- Healthcare workers can get exposed to HIV by sustaining needlestick injuries accidentally or contact with blood contaminated by HIV however the risk is minimal in the absence of proper security measures.

Factors That Contribute to HIV Transmission

Certain genetic, behavioral and social factors can increase the risk of getting HIV and, ultimately the development of AIDS.

Lack of Awareness and Education :- In a lot of regions, the lack of knowledge of HIV transmission can lead to unsound methods, thereby increasing the chance of contracting HIV.
Stigma and Discrimination :- The fear of being rejected by society could deter people from taking advantage of HIV treatment or testing which allows the virus to spread in a way that is not controlled.
Poverty and Limited Healthcare Access :- In low-income communities, barriers to healthcare including limited access to antiretroviral therapy (ART)–increase the risk of HIV spreading and evolving into AIDS.
High-Risk Sexual Behaviors :- Multiple sexual partners or not using condoms or performing sex activities increases the risk of being exposed to HIV.
Pre-existing Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) :-STIs can cause ruptures in mucous membranes. This makes it more likely for HIV to infiltrate the body.
Biological Vulnerability :- Girls and young women particularly in sub-Saharan African countries are both biologically and socially more prone to HIV infection due to the anatomical causes and gender-based discrimination.

How HIV Leads to AIDS Over Time

HIV infection isn’t the cause of AIDS overnight. The timeframe varies based on various aspects:

If not treated, HIV typically progresses to AIDS within 8-10 years.
With antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV is able to be controlled for years Many people never get AIDS.
Patients who aren’t able to access health care or co-infections (e.g. tuberculosis, e.g.) or weak immune systems could develop AIDS quicker.

Preventing the Progression to AIDS

Preventing AIDS is stopping HIV infection from the beginning or taking care of HIV effectively for those already affected.

Key Prevention Strategies:

Congruent and correct condom usage in sex
Regular HIV tests as well as early diagnosis
PrEP (PrEP) for high-risk people
Secure needle practices and needle exchange programs
Regular treatment with antiretroviral medication (ART) for HIV-positive patients

If a person with HIV is taking efficient ART and maintains an undetectable level of viral load the virus is considered to be non-transmittable and the progression to AIDS is virtually impossible to prevent.

Conclusion

The main reason for AIDS can be traced back to HIV infection However, the real cause is in the way HIV is spread, as well as the social, behavioral and economic circumstances that enable it to thrive. Understanding the root reasons behind HIV transmission from sexually unprotected sex to shared needles, to issues like stigma and poverty we can better prepare to stop AIDS on an individual and social level.

Although medical advances have transformed HIV from a death sentence into a condition that can be managed, education, awareness and access to health care remain the most effective instruments in preventing spreading HIV and stopping AIDS.