What Leads to HIV?

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is one of the biggest global health issues for the public. Although advances in medicine have significantly enhanced the standard of living of people living with HIV However, prevention remains the primary goal. To combat the virus effectively it is crucial to comprehend what causes HIV and the ways it spreads, and the actions or conditions that can increase the risk of being infected.

What Leads to HIV?

HIV is a disease that is a threat to your immune system. It does this by specifically CD4 cells (T cells) that help the body fight off infection. If untreated, HIV can weaken the immune system to the point where the body is unable to combat diseases or infections and eventually lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Disorder (AIDS).

However, it’s vital to remember that HIV can be prevented, managed and, if treated through early detection and appropriate treatment, not an end of life sentence. The first step towards preventing is to understand what causes HIV to become spreadable at all in the first place.

How is HIV Transmitted?

HIV can be spread through the exchange of bodily fluids between an HIV-positive person. The fluids that are involved comprise:

• Blood
• Semen
• Vaginal fluids
• Rectal fluids
• Breast milk

To allow transmission it is necessary for these fluids to be in contact with mucous membranes (such ones found in the genital areas, mouth, or rectum) or damaged tissue or directly introduced into bloodstream (e.g. through an injection via a needle or).

Primary Causes That Lead to HIV Infection

1. Unprotected Sexual Contact :- The most prevalent route of HIV transmission across the globe is unprotected sexual relations vaginal, aural, and oral that involves an affected partner. Sexual contact with anal is at the highest risk of infection because the lining around the rectal is thin and more vulnerable to tear, allowing HIV to enter the bloodstream much more quickly.
   • Inadequate use of condoms raises HIV risk.
   • Multiple sexual partners increase the likelihood of coming across people who are HIV-positive.
   • Engaging in sex-related work or transactional sex in the absence of protection exposes you to more risk.

    

2. Sharing Needles and Syringes :- Patients who inject drugs (PWID) have a high risk of contracting HIV in the event of sharing needles, syringes or any other equipment for injecting drugs. Small amounts of HIV-infected blood could carry HIV from one individual to the next. This kind that transmits the virus is a significant cause of HIV spreading in a variety of communities.
   • Sharing of needles in informal environments or with patients who are taking drugs is particularly dangerous.
   • Tattooing or body piercing using unsterile tools also carry risks, but less often.

3. Blood Transfusions (in Rare Cases) :- Receiving blood contaminated through transfusions or organ transplants is a possible however rare method to develop HIV. The risk of contracting HIV has been reduced due to the strict screening process across the world. However, in areas that have inadequate healthcare infrastructures this risk remains.
   • Countries that have limitations in testing may be faced with issues related to unsafe transfusions.
   • Inadequate medical practices can lead to the occasional occurrence of instances.

4. Mother-to-Child Transmission (Vertical Transmission) :- HIV can be transmitted by a mother who is HIV positive to her child in the following ways:
   • Pregnancy
   • Childbirth
   • Breastfeeding

   If there is no interventions from a medical professional, likelihood of transmission are much more likely. But, with the right antiretroviral treatment (ART) during the birth and pregnancy, and alternative options to breastfeeding, risk could be decreased to less than 1 percent.

5. Occupational Exposure :-Healthcare workers aren’t at any risk of developing HIV due to exposure at workgenerally through injury to a needle or exposure to blood that is infected. However, if they take appropriate security measures, such events are extremely rare and seldom cause infection.
6. Risk Factors That Contribute to HIV Spread :- Although the above are the main ways that transmit HIV, there’s also broader biological, behavioral, and social triggers which increase the likelihood of getting HIV:

Lack of Awareness and a lack of education

Many people get HIV due to the fact that they do not understand how the virus spreads or how they can protect themselves. Untruths and stigmas frequently lead to risky behaviors and a reluctance to get tested or treatment.

• Stigma and Discrimination :- The fear of being judged or excluded from treatment prevents people from being diagnosed or being treated. In silence, and in secrecy, people can contribute to the undiagnosed transmission of HIV.
• Gender Inequality :- In a number of regions around the globe, girls and women are at greater risk of falling victim to unbalanced relationship dynamics that can hinder women from discussing condoms or avoiding forced sexual sex.
• Age and Peer Pressure :- The younger generation, especially adolescents are more likely to engage in risky behaviors that include sexual activity without protection and drug use, frequently not knowing the long-term effects.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) :- A second STI like gonorrhea, syphilis, or herpes, increases the likelihood of contracting or passing HIV. STIs can cause skin sores and cuts in the skin, making it more likely for HIV to infiltrate the body.

Reducing the Risk of HIV

Understanding the causes of HIV is essential to stop the spread of HIV. Here are the most important ways to prevent it:

• Consistent Condom Utilization :- Utilizing condoms in a safe manner each time you have sex is among the most effective methods to stop HIV.
• Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) :- This daily dose significantly lowers the chance of developing HIV for people at high risk.
• Needle Exchange Programs :- The provision of clean needles to users of drugs helps to stop the spread of drugs through shared equipment.
• HIV Testing and Early :-  Treatment Know your status and undergoing antiretroviral treatment in the event of a positive test can lower the amount of virus to undetectable levels, meaning that the virus won’t be transferred to other people. (Undetectable means untransmittable, (or U=U)).
• Educational Campaigns :- The dissemination of accurate information helps individuals protect themselves and other people.

Conclusion

HIV is not a discriminatory disease however, a variety of actions and situations can lead to the transmission of HIV. Recognizing the factors that lead to HIV and the causes of it which includes sexual activity that is not protected, sharing needles and the lack of awareness will allow people, communities, and health systems take active steps towards the prevention of HIV.

By educating ourselves and testing, as well as treatment and kindness, we can limit the spreading of HIV and make progress towards an HIV-free future. The key to stopping this disease lies in education compassion, empathy, and taking action.