HIV-AIDS AWARENESS

Nigeria: Access Bank Kicks Out HIV/Aids

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 16:07:00 +0000

Access Bank Plc last week in Kaduna, at the Fifth Chukker Polo Resort, showed how a determined responsible lifestyle will lead to an ultimate triumph over the pandemic, HIV/AIDS, when its team at the on-going Emir of Katsina Charity Shield Polo Tournament defeated their Barbedos opponents by 12 goals to 8, despite a 2- goal handicap advantage given to them.

The Access Bank team, which comprised Hamisu Buba +5 handicap, Adamu Atta +4 handicap, Augustin Von Wermick +5 and Miguel Pando +5 showed in no unclear terms their desire to emerge the tournament's champion, though appearing for the first time, by defeating an equally formidable Barbedos side, which paraded Kasim Bukar +2, Dawule Baba +4, Babangida Hassan +4 and Diego White +7. The Access Bank team will play MRS of Lagos on Thursday, while the Barbedos team will take on Kano Titans.

The match kick-started this year's Emir of Katsina Charity Shield Polo tournament sponsored by Access Bank to the tune of N20 million. The Charity Shield which offers N4 million in prize money, will pitch four evenly matched Nigerian high-goal teams in a week-long nerve- racking polo showdown. Access Bank's sponsorship of the tournament is as a result of the similarities in the tournament's objective and the bank's relentless campaign against the pandemic, HIV/AIDS in our society.The tournament was organised in partnership with UNICEF because of its role in the global campaign against HIV/AIDS, particularly as it affects the children population.

The Emir of Katsina Charity Shield is an initiative benefitting non-governmental organisations. Aside from UNICEF, other beneficiaries of the tournament include: The Human Development Foundation of Nigeria (HDFN), the Kaduna State Special Education School and the Federation of Muslim Women in Nigeria. Proceeds from sales of memorabilia at this year's tournament and N6 million from Access Bank donation will be used to support UNICEF in its campaign against HIV/AIDS. Access Bank has committed to support the tournament for the next four years.

The Charity Shield has grown to become one of the major events for which Fifth Chukker resort is known. The event is named after His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammadu Kabir Usman, who was the pillar of the Nigerian polo for over 50 years. The late Emir became the Life President of the Nigerian Polo Association (NPA), after retiring from the game as +5 player to ascend the throne in 1981, following the passing away of his father, who was a legend of the game, having achieved a record +7 handicap.

The tournament has grown to become a major attraction to international Polo players from countries like the United States of America, Argentina and South Africa while Polo big names in Nigeria take advantage of the tournament to rekindle their rivalry.

This year's tournament has been billed to be the most competitive polo tournament in the country as four fortified high-goal teams parading all the country's best polo players from the Access Bank team, Barbedos team, Lagos MRS and Kano Titans are participating in the 2008 Charity Shield rumble.

HIV and Black Women - Not Hype, But The "Straight-Up Truth"

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sun, 18 May 2008 15:44:00 +0000

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Three years ago, Janine married Gary, her high school sweetheart. Gary was handsome, charming, successful, and an excellent father to Janine's teenage children from a previous marriage. They bought a beautiful brand new home in the suburbs and Janine thought she was living the American dream. That is until the day she listened to Gary's voice messages and heard another man calling her husband, "baby." Janine's perfect dream world quickly turned into a devastating nightmare. Three years later, Janine is still struggling with depression, financial debt, and other health issues. "Unfortunately Janine's story is all too common", says Joy Marie, the author of the explosive, informative, new book, The Straight-Up Truth About The Down-Low: Women share their stories of betrayal, pain and survival (Creative Wisdom Books-March 2008).

"Black women are the fastest growing HIV/AIDS population in the US and they are most likely to be infected through high-risk heterosexual contact. This includes sex with husbands and boyfriends living the down-low lifestyle. Many women who are married or in long-term relationships believe they are safe and not at risk of being infected. Women in marriages are lulled into a false sense of security", says Marie. Joy Marie is the pen name of two women who have survived marriages to down-low men. Four years ago, the "Down-low" was a hot, controversial topic discussed in the media. Recently, the subject of the down-low seems to be taboo and has been swept under the rug and labeled "hype" and a "myth." "The Down-low is not hype or a myth, nor is it just another way to vilify black men.

This is evidenced by the many letters, e-mails and phone calls we receive every week from women in crisis because they have discovered their husbands/boyfriends are sleeping with men behind their backs. Recently, we received a telephone call from a woman whose sister had contracted HIV/AIDS from her down-low husband. The sister was hospitalized with pneumonia and an extremely low T-cell count. We believe the account of our experiences and what we have learned from other women will bring about awareness and a heightened sense of self-responsibility. We want women to become informed, thus able to protect themselves from the men who practice this deceitful, life-threatening behavior", says Marie.

The Straight-Up Truth About The Down-Low is a must read for all women. It was written by two women who have experienced the anguish and misery of being married to men on the down-low. They share from their hearts their stories and the stories of other women who have lived through this experience. They will address warning signs and answer many of your questions that have been ignored by other books written on the subject. This book can be purchased at http://www.straightuptruth.com/ and also on Amazon.com.

What You Need to Know About HIV

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sun, 11 May 2008 14:06:00 +0000

HIV is an abbreviation for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome or AIDS as it is generally called, is the result of this virus. When a person has AIDS, the immune system gradually break downs. The patient then becomes highly susceptible to infections and illnesses, which could even, be fatal. History dates its origin to June 5th 1981 in Los Angeles where the virus was found in five homosexual men. It was then called GRID or Gay-Related Immune Deficiency because people thought it only affected homosexual people. This theory was soon blown to pieces when cases were reported from all over. Today, AIDS has reached epidemic proportions. It has plagued most countries around the world and is considered a highly dangerous disease. To gain a better understanding of HIV, we must first explore how it is transmitted. a. HIV is a sexually transmitted disease. What does this mean? The mucous membrane lines different parts of the body such as the lips, genital areas, nostrils etc. When the mucous membrane comes in contact with sexual secretions of an infected HIV patient, the virus transfers from one to another. This is why the main cause for the spread of AIDS is unprotected sexual intercourse. b. HIV is also transmitted through infected blood. Therefore, one has to take extreme precaution when undergoing blood transfusions. It is always advisable to go to a reputed hospital or clinic where infected syringes are not used. Intravenous drug users and hemophiliacs are at high risk to get HIV. c. HIV can be transmitted from a mother to a child either in the womb, during childbirth or duing breast-feeding. The chances of this happening have been reduced with drugs and other procedures. Some of the early symptoms include sinusitis, bronchitis, otitis, pharyngitis, weight loss, dry cough, unexplained fatigue, unusual blemishes on the tongue, herpes zoster and oral ulcerations. During the more advanced stages patients may have chronic diarrhea, continuous fever, extreme weight loss, oral hairy leukoplakia and candidiasis and pulmonary tuberculosis. It is extremely important for people to be tested for HIV. In some communities, partners are required to take the HIV test prior to marriage. This is because it not only affects the infected individual but also can spread to the spouse and the unborn child. It is difficult telling someone you love that you have AIDS. However, is very vital for their health and safety. Doctors, nurses and Medicare professionals are also exposed to this virus as they deal with syringes and needles on a daily basis. If you have AIDS and if you are looking for a doctor, then do some preliminary research on the doctor before you meet him or her. The doctor should be reliable and must be aware of the nuances of the field. You should choose a doctor who you are comfortable with.

Notes on AIDS and HIV

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 10 May 2008 14:02:00 +0000

In 1981, scientists in the United States and France first recognized the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which was later discovered to be caused by a virus called the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV breaks down the body's immunity to infections leading to AIDS. The virus can lie hidden in the body for up to 10 years without producing any obvious symptoms or before developing into the AIDS disease, and in the meantime the person can unknowingly infect others. Currently, an estimated 40 million people worldwide are HIV carriers, and three million a year are dying of AIDS. HIV lives in white blood cells and is present in the sexual fluids of humans. It's difficult to catch and is spread mostly through sexual intercourse, by needle or syringe sharing among intravenous drug users, in blood transfusions, and during pregnancy and birth (if the mother is infected). Using another person's razor blade or having your body pierced or tattooed are also risky, but the HIV virus cannot be transmitted by shaking hands, kissing, cuddling, fondling, sneezing, cooking food, or sharing eating or drinking utensils. One cannot be infected by saliva, sweat, tears, urine, or feces; toilet seats, telephones, swimming pools, or mosquito bites do not cause AIDS. Ostracizing a known AIDS victim is not only immoral but also absurd. Most blood banks now screen their products for HIV, and you can protect yourself against dirty needles by only allowing an injection if you see the syringe taken out of a fresh unopened pack. The simplest safeguard during sex is the proper use of a latex condom. Unroll the condom onto the erect penis; while withdrawing after ejaculation, hold onto the condom as you come out. Never try to recycle a condom, and pack a supply with you, as it can be a nuisance trying to buy them on short notice. HIV is spread more often through anal than vaginal sex, because the lining of the rectum is much weaker than that of the vagina, and ordinary condoms sometimes tear when used in anal sex. If you have anal sex, only use extra-strong condoms and special water-based lubricants, since oil, Vaseline, and cream weaken the rubber. During oral sex you must make sure you don't get any semen or menstrual blood in your mouth. A woman runs 10 times the risk of contracting AIDS from a man than the other way around, and the threat is always greater when another sexually transmitted disease (STD) is present. The very existence of AIDS calls for a basic change in human behavior. No vaccine or drug exists that can prevent or cure AIDS, and because the virus mutates frequently, no remedy may ever be totally effective. Other STDs such as syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B, and herpes are far more common than AIDS and can lead to serious complications such as infertility, but at least they can usually be cured. You should always practice safe sex to prevent AIDS and other STDs. You never know who is infected or even if you yourself have become infected. It's important to bring the subject up before you start to make love. Make a joke out of it by pulling out a condom and asking your new partner, "Say, do you know what this is?" Or perhaps, "Your condom or mine?" Far from being unromantic or embarrassing, you'll both feel more relaxed with the subject off your minds, and it's much better than worrying afterwards if you might have been infected. The golden rule is safe sex or no sex. An HIV infection can be detected through a blood test, because the antibodies created by the body to fight off the virus can be seen under a microscope. It takes at least three weeks for the antibodies to be produced and in some cases as long as six months before they can be picked up during a screening test. If you think you may have run a risk, you should discuss the appropriateness of a test with your doctor. It's always better to know if you are infected so as to be able to avoid infecting others, to obtain early treatment of symptoms, and to make realistic plans. If you know someone with AIDS, you should give them all the support you can (there's no danger in such contact unless blood is present).

My Cure Theory for HIV - AIDs

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:01:00 +0000

HIV has many different strands or forms making it almost impossible to find an efficient answer for vaccination. Over in other countries (Asia and Africa to name a few) where there is prostitution, scientists have discovered that prostitutes have become immune to the virus in a couple different ways. Scientists have discovered that the immune system of prostitutes has found a way to fight the virus. How could this be? HIV is being stopped in its tracks from becoming Aids. Is the virus, HIV fighting against different strands or forms of itself? Think about it. You have different strands of the virus, meaning several different partners with different types of strands of HIV. You have a prostitute with one type of strand (the control patient). The resultant different strands introduced to a control patient with one strand equals different outcomes. After years of research and billions of dollars in funding, ironically, sexually, prostitution has found a key to fighting Aids. There are no known cures for viruses or even for the common cold. But figuratively speaking why try so hard to fight an enemy, when you can use an enemy against themselves. With the discovery of different strands and forms of viruses, is there a possible way we can use a virus against itself? Bottom line is that sometimes finding a cure for something can seem almost impossible but fighting fire with fire can result in the ultimate answer. Keep in mind with every new idea or answer arises many questions for the long term outcome. Our answers to life may give us new hope but may also be our ultimate downfall. I wrote this just to get a professional medical research opinion. This virus has been around for ages and needs to be stopped like all other bad diseases and viruses. I just wanted to post my idea in good faith to help find a cure.

TGP can help to prevent HIV-AIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:59:00 +0000

Now a day AIDS is increasing all over the world in an enormous position. No country could face it successfully. It turns very unique position in some countries of Africa like Uganda, Gayer, Cambodia, and Sub Sahara region etc. East Asian some countries are also affected by this. In South Asian country like India is the second largest country in the world for HIV/ AIDS. There are 5.1 million people carry or suffer of this. It will be the main reason of our country for vulnerable of HIV/ AIDS. Because we have to depend in various reason of that country. Mainly our internal Business fully depends on it. Such there many way we bound to go India. Burma is another neighbor country is already a large number affected in here. AIDS surveillance specialist Mr. Parvage Shajjad Mollik said, �??There are so many cultural values and socio economical systems are responsible for this increasing like this dieses, poverty and illiteracy is also responsible for this increasing. This indicator is not fully responsible but it helps to change behavior on so that. So if we want to prevent of this at first we have to emphasize to try to change sexual behavior. We did success to find out our vulnerable target groups and why they become vulnerable�??. HIV/ AIDS is a sexual disease, but it is deferent from other sexual transmission disease (STDs, STI). Other STDs have proper medicine and these diseases don�??t create cause of die, but AIDS is very dangerous, there are no any alternative way to survive after it infection, it can end of life. We find out first vulnerable group in Bangladesh is injection drug user (IDUs) and second is professional sex worker. There are many reason every year are increasing IDUs all over in Bangladesh. It easy to get in every location in Bangladesh and chipper than other is the main reason for this; other reasons are political and socio-economical frustrations. Last year 4th surveillance report was about 4% IDUs are infected with HIV/AIDS all over in Bangladesh, but after one year we see the one area of Dhaka City this raise to 8.9%, this report we get from 5th surveillance survey. This ratio will be clouded in our social norm and can help to hamper our economical condition. Our country is very poor so we are not able to face a large number of patients like this disease. So we have to take necessary steps to prevent it�??s increasing. We need several level of advocacy champing to build up awareness of HIV/AIDS. We need to encourage gender/ reproductive health education, which not only prevent HIV/AIDS but also help to prevent others STDs/STI (Sexual Transmission Disease). We can influence our government education authority to include about HIV/AIDS details our primary and secondary level�??s curriculum. Gender education is essential in our country�??s adolescent boys & girls. This education can play a vital role of empowerment our illiterate society. It can help to develop our adolescent into a proper knowledge. Religious superstition & fundamentalism prevents to get such kind of education from their childhood. But this knowledge is very important for mental & physical development, it can help their social interaction, social behavior, reproductive health & sanitation, sexual behavior, to able to adopt all kinds of social change, to awareness them of their rights etc. Individually lack of knowledge these one can create other problems. We also increase peer educator for professional sex worker, peer educator means a group of person or individual who are take from target group or brothel to give them proper training. After training they can able to awareness others. We need to take TGP (Target Group Promoter) strategy for residence or other sex worker. It is very affected for residence sex workers or hidden sex workers. TGP is a newly invention idea (Proved by Rainbow Nari O Shishu Kallyan Foundation) which help to prevent HIV/AIDS. TGP is a one kind of source/ broker/ sealer (Called in Bengali is Dalal), who collects clients/ customers for residence sex workers; they encourage people to buy sex. Without TGP (Their nominated source) the residence sex worker doesn�??t allow any new client. TGP will play a vital roll in our action. Residence Sex Workers (RSW) lives together three to ten in a house. They continue their business under a Guidance or Governance or a Teem Leader (is called Sharderni in Bengali). These teem leaders communicate with some local people, who help them by delivering customer or client, these people is called source (in Bengali called Dalal). They depend on each other. Some times those sources shelter them from local unexpected situation or from police harassment. If we could continue this action then TGP will play very important role. Because residence sex workers don�??t stay long time in a house, they change their house after three to six months, but they always keep contact with their source (TGP) for continuing their business. For this reasons TGP is very important programme. In some areas a group of drug user uses one syringe when they take drug. It is very dangerous for increasing HIV/AIDS. So we should try to alert them, and give advice them two or more drug user don�??t use drug by a one syringe.

AIDS and women in the world

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Wed, 07 May 2008 13:57:00 +0000

Women are in nature more vulnerable than men to HIV infection. �??Rainbow Nari O Shishu Kallyan Foundation�?? have found that male to female transmission appears to be 2 to 4 times more efficient than female to male transmission, in part because semen contains a far higher concentration of HIV than vaginal fluid. Adolescent girls are predominantly vulnerable. Their immature cervixes and low vaginal mucus production presents less of a barrier to HIV infection. The developing world is now bearing the full brunt of the human immune- deficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. More than 90 per cent of new infections are in developing countries and the virus has spread to most areas. In many areas of sub-Saharan Africa, where infection has been prevalent for a decade or more, HIV has already become the leading cause of adult illness and death. Similarly profound changes in patterns of disease and death are likely in those regions of Asia and Latin America where the virus has more recently become epidemic. Most parts of the world have reported cases of HIV infection and AIDS. Although Sub Saharan Africa is the worst affected region, containing perhaps three-quarters of all cases, the virus is now spreading most rapidly in India and South-East Asia. Heterosexual and vertical transmission of the virus has resulted in its wide distribution in the general population, in sexually active adults and adolescent. The economic, gender discrimination, social and physical right imbalance between men and women contributes to the lack of safety in sexual relationships and the difficulty for many women in negotiating safer sex. To do so may have serious repercussions, ranging from stigma to fear of violence or desertion. The right differential between men and women is compounded by age differences. Women naturally marry or have sex with older men, who have been sexually dynamic longer and are more possible to have become infected. Men are also beginning to seek younger sexual partners believing that these girls are less likely to be infected with HIV. The majority infections take place in infants or young children and adolescent, sexually active adults. Women tend to become infected an average of 5 to 10 years earlier than men. Women also have a higher risk of acquiring infection which may, in East Africa, be from 1.2 to 1.5 times greater in females than males. Most adults who die are economically active and have many dependants. Major social and economic problems are emerging: orphans, changes in the dependency ratio, loss of skilled and unskilled labor. Women are vulnerable to coerced sex, including rape and other sexual abuse - within and outside the family - and forced sex work. Any non-consensual or coerced penetrative sex can carry an increased risk of HIV transmission, particularly as men are not likely to use condoms in these situations. Subordination in education, employment, social and legal status makes women more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. Women who have limited access to financial resources are more likely to become economically dependent on men, relegated to the subsistence sector or forced into commercial sex work.

The HIV-AIDS epidemic has been fuelled by gender inequality

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Tue, 06 May 2008 13:55:00 +0000

Worldwide, rates of sexually transmitted infections among young people are soaring: one-third of the 340 million new STIs each year occur in people under 25 years of age. Each year, more than one in every 20 adolescents contracts a curable STI. More than half of all new HIV infections occur in people between the ages of 15 to 24 years. The sexual health needs for adolescent girls are generally overlooked, Stigma and vulnerability affects particular groups of men as well as women. Although men generally have more access to information on sexual issues than women, and more decision-making power regarding sexual behavior, Access to information, and treatment for other infections which facilitate the transmission of HIV and onset of AIDS, including sexually transmitted infections, are limited because of weak public health services, health workers�?? negative attitudes, and the high cost of treatment. If the adolescents are informed and thought about their sexual and reproductive health, they might take the decisions about it independently. But the physiological, behavioral and social factors that make adolescents more vulnerable than adults to STDs/STI. Seeing that girls have a large mucosal surface area exposed to infection and have not yet developed mature mucosal defence systems, the cells that line the opening of the cervix are particularly susceptible to chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV. Social powerlessness, poverty and economic dependence contribute to the vulnerability of adolescent girls. The HIV/AIDS epidemic has been fuelled by gender inequality. Unequal power relations, sexual coercion and violence is a widespread phenomenon faced by women of all age-groups, and has an array of negative effects on female sexual, physical and mental health. HIV/AIDS infection reveals the disastrous effects of discrimination against women on human health, and on the socio-economic structure of society. Usually, girls do not have the same educational and employment opportunities as boys, and they face family and societal forces for early marriage and childbearing. Early marriage and early childbearing are the norm in Bangladesh, although age at marriage is rising in all the countries mentioned. Finally, there is evidence that an increasing proportion of unmarried adolescents are sexually active. Now a day, age at marriage is increasing, and this raises its own issues and concerns. Sometimes Later marriage increases premarital sex. Sex outside marriage is normally considered immoral and adolescents who engage in it particularly girls are strongly condemned. In many societies, people from groups associated with high incidences of HIV infection �?? including injecting drug users, men who have sex with men, and commercial sex workers are subjected to a culture of fear and punishment when their HIV status is suspected.

Social Cultural and economic forces make women more likely to contract HIV infection than men

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:54:00 +0000

The view of poor & developing countries, In generally we found that women & adolescent girls are more vulnerable to HIV infection on each sexual encounter because of the biological nature of the process and the vulnerability of the reproductive tract tissues to the virus, especially in adolescent girls. For example, young women are generally disadvantaged by gender disparities. In terms of food intake, access to health care and growth patterns, girls are often worse off than boys. The inequalities become evident soon after birth, and by adolescence many girls are grossly underweight. Social Cultural and economic forces make women more likely to contract HIV infection than men. Women are often less able to negotiate for safer sex due to reasons such as their lower status, economic dependence and fear of violence, adolescent girls in the countries. Adolescents in poor families often do not have the option to make real choices about their sexual and reproductive lives, such as when and whom to marry, whether and when to have children and how many to have, and whether to use contraceptives. Women tend to marry very young: nearly two thirds of adolescents in most South Asian countries marry before 18 years of age, and many even before 15 years, despite laws exclusion such early marriage. In many poor regions, Women�??s limited economic opportunity, and relative powerlessness, may force them into sex work in order to survive with household financial disaster. This exposes them to HIV infection and they in turn will transmit HIV to their clients. In those areas girls are particularly vulnerable to HIV infection, because of intergenerational sexual relationships, violence, and limited access to information. In addition, discrimination and stigma obstruct adolescent girls�?? access to health services. Poverty causes increased migration to look for work. Gender analysis, in relation to HIV/AIDS, has tended to focus on women of reproductive age, and infrequently on young girls, because Young women and girls are increasingly being targeted for sex by older men seeking safe partners and also by those who erroneously believe that a man infected with HIV/AIDS will get rid of the disease by having sex with a virgin. So HIV/AIDS epidemic has been fuelled by gender inequality or discrimination. Unequal power relations, sexual coercion and violence is a widespread phenomenon faced by women of all age-groups, and has an array of negative effects on female sexual, physical and mental health. In many developing countries, poverty, and gender discrimination between women and men, are both strongly linked to the spread of HIV/AIDS. Gender and age analysis shows the ways in which women and girls of different ages are vulnerable to the infection, and in require of support to allow the survivors to overcome the financial and social effects of the epidemic. In responding to HIV/AIDS and poverty alleviation approaching are interconnected. Therefore health and development workers should work on holistic policies and programmes to reduce poverty and address HIV/AIDS, and Emphasize the need for special efforts to be made to protect women and girls exposed to the risk of HIV/AIDS. Ensure that the legal, civil and human rights of those affected and infected are protected and that women have access to treatment, counselling and support on an equal footing with men.

Female Sex Workers are vulnerable for HIV-AIDS in Bangladesh

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sun, 04 May 2008 13:52:00 +0000

The over all HIV/AIDS epidemics situation is low in Bangladesh. But it is increasing very high in some heterogeneous group who are actually vulnerable of HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS spread out very quickly in all over the population. There are many ways in Bangladesh to HIV/AIDS increasing issue. The cause of poverty, gender discrimination, low prevalence of health facility, lack of reproductively knowledge, illiteracy and high risky behavior may be called epidemic in future of Bangladesh. The atmosphere, which is needed to spread HIV as epidemic of HIV/AIDS, those are present in Bangladesh. It seems that there are three issues that are appearing to play a crucial position in HIV transmission in Bangladesh: female sex work substance use, Intravenous drug use, professional blood donor and mobility. Female sex workers and their clients have been a major factor in the heterosexual transmission of HIV. Separate but unstable epidemics have been seen in some IDU populations in Dhaka city. And mobile populations, particularly at national borders are at higher risk of HIV acquisition due to the fact of being away from home, community and the anonymity and loneliness of traveling. The following three segments focus on the monitoring of the HIV epidemic in these vulnerable populations. Commercial/Professional sex workers operate in all over the country. But it is important to know how large the sex-worker population may be to adequately interpret surveillance results. It is hypothetical that in some region, rapid increases in the absolute numbers of sex workers have resulted from significant political, social or economic changes. The nature of sex work and the profile of sex workers vary enormously within and between countries. There are most female sex workers, and those that work full-time, part-time or seasonally. Sex workers may operate in variety of settings such as brothels, riverbanks, bars, parks, under contraction buildings, street corners, hotels, etc. Sex work does not consider in Bangladesh, expect 14 reported brothels. Some HIV/AIDS or social workers suspected that brothel sex worker in Bangladesh is limited, near about 35,000 to 45,000, but other category sex workers is no countable, it is suspected more then 1,00,000. Dhaka city, for example, has approximately 5,000-15,000 female sex workers--an estimate (Source: Rainbow Nari O Shishu Kallyan Foundation). In most Cities, however, validated estimates of the numbers of sex workers are almost non-existent. All estimates require regular updating and validation but these two approaches are worthy of repetition in other settings. Neither method can work without the trust and involvement of commercial sex workers themselves. Frequency of exposure to HIV infection through sexual intercourse is the key factor for transmission of HIV among sex workers. For example, there are many countries; a significant proportion of sex workers is infected with HIV. The rates might vary from less than 1 percent to 40 percent or higher in some settings. Even where HIV infection has not yet increase extensively, STD infection is often very high among sex workers. For example, in one brothel area in Bangladesh, 95 percent of 466 sex workers tested positive to antibodies for genital herpes virus and 60 percent for syphilis, although HIV was not detected among any of them. With the sequence of the epidemic, HIV tends to increase where other STDs are present. There are many aspects to the nexus of drug use and HIV infection, In most of Bangladesh, people who choose to use drugs (Smoking-drug, morphia, heroin, hashish, Medicare-drug some kinds of sleeping pill, cold syrup, injections etc) that are not all socially sanctioned are treated as entirely outside society, enemies even of the social structure. The factor of Injection/ intravenous Drug Users (IDUs), which is directly can influence of HIV/AIDS, STDs/STI. For the majority of injecting drug users (IDUs), it means that lip-service is paid to the principles supposedly learned through the course of the epidemic: in relation to IDUs and the risks of HIV transmission, issues such as human rights, peer education, community participation, and legal and social change are unachievable fictions. Besides, better estimation of populations at risk (i.e., those currently injecting drugs, or sex partners of IDUs and populations coming to be at risk), and a better understanding of the dynamics of drug utilization and social association of drug use are all necessary for targeting interventions efficiently. Populations in Bangladesh are moving across land and sea borders in increasing numbers. International trade supports this growth in population mobility, international border between India and Bangladesh, more than 500 trucks come daily. Also occurring in Bangladesh are high levels of maritime trade, and seamen on fishing vessels travel widely in the region, enabling the transmission of HIV to populations in areas where the virus was previously unfamiliar. Crossing land or sea borders often requires overnight stays, leaving the individual with idle time and opportunities to visit drinking and gambling establishments and brothels. HIV surveillance data for female sex workers, male STD clinic patients and young males at two sea ports �?? Cittagong & Mongla --show a clustering of high prevalence sites.

female sex workers in Bangladesh

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 03 May 2008 13:50:00 +0000

Although Bangladesh continues to be a low prevalence area, it is surrounded by high prevalence countries (High prevalence of HIV/AIDS in neighboring India). We however must not adopt a complacent attitude in respect as our country has all the determinants for an explosive outbreak of HIV/AIDS epidemic. Curses of poverty, illiteracy, ignorance, proximity of Bangladesh to the so-called 'Golden Triangle' & high prevalence of STDs, make our country seriously vulnerable. Drug use increases the HIV risk and can start very early-for example, glue-sniffing by youngsters living or working on the streets. The danger of becoming infected with HIV by sharing injecting equipment is well known, and real. Unemployment, slum housing, family fragility, frequent cross-border movement of people, lack of information, unsafe blood transfusion, physical and sexual abuse-that create a "risk environment" of violence for many young people in the region. In addition increased number of migrant workers, unsafe practice in health service, unsafe sex practice etc. movement of population, less use of condom, polygamy, homosexuality, extra-marital relations, further increases the susceptibility. In Bangladesh, the intravenous drug users (IDU) are the most potential carriers of HIV/AIDS among the vulnerable groups in the country. The fourth round of national HIV and behavioural surveillance report showed that the HIV infection rate among the injection drug users (IDUs) is now 4 per cent, up from 2.5 per cent previously which is just short of the 5 per cent mark of a concentrated epidemic. About 93.4 per cent IDUs in central Bangladesh admitted that they share same syringe while taking drugs. Even they use the same syringe several times for taking drug. UNCDP estimates that between 500,000 and 1,00,000 people in Bangladesh are addicted to drugs. Although HIV rates are comparatively lower (one per cent) among the sex workers but Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) rates are still quite high (20 per cent) among this group. On the other hand, brothel-based female sex workers in Bangladesh report the highest turnover of clients than anywhere in Asia (an average of 18.8 clients per week). Meanwhile, most of the people of country are unaware about the deadly disease. The 1999-2000 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey found that only 31 per cent of married women and 50 per cent of newly married men had heard of AIDS. Over 90 per cent of rickshaw pullers could not identify a single method of HIV prevention. About 13,000 to 17,000 people are living with the incurable virus in Bangladesh, according to the UNAIDS report 2001. According to the National AIDS Committee and surveillance team members and experts, the rate is quite alarming as it remains one per cent less than the highest five per cent HIV epidemic index. The rate of HIV/AIDS remains less than one per cent among the other vulnerable groups -- truckers, migrant workers, gay, hijras (hermaphrodites), professional blood donors, heroin smokers and, hotel, brothel and street based commercial sex workers. Bangladesh is bordered with India, the second largest HIV infected country in the world; the country is therefore at high risk for the HIV epidemic, said Morten Giersing, UNICEF's country representative.

Geographical location of Bangladesh and vulnerability to AIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Fri, 02 May 2008 13:48:00 +0000

Bangladesh, with a population of 136 million, had about 13,000 adults and children living with HIV infection at the end 2002, according to UNAIDS estimates. However, only 248 HIV cases have actually been reported. Significant underreporting of cases occurs because of the country's limited voluntary testing and counseling capacity and the social stigma, which leads to the fear of being identified and detected as HIV positive. The HIV-prevalence rate among adults between the ages of 15 and 49 is still relatively low, at 0.1 percent of the population. As expected, rates are higher in specific groups, such as injecting drug users who have left treatment (1.7 percent) and commercial sex workers (0.5 percent), according to a national behavioral and serological surveillance undertaken in 2001. Although overall HIV prevalence is low, behavior patterns and extensive risk factors that facilitate the rapid spread of the infection are prevalent, making Bangladesh highly vulnerable to an HIV/AIDS epidemic. These risk factors are gender discrimination, A large commercial sex worker/ brothel sex worker, a large number of hidden/residence sex worker, Lack of basic sexual knowledge, Lack of proper knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases(STDs/STI) etc. There are fourteen government reputed brothel in Bangladesh, where roughly 40,000 sex workers live in there, the number of per sex worker�??s client/customer is 18.8 per week, and 44 clients per week for hotel-based workers. And non countable client meet to residence sex workers or street sex worker, who are very vulnerable for HIV/AIDS. Significant prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among sex workers in Central Bangladesh. About 43 percent of female sex workers and 18.2 percent of male sex workers have syphilis. This and other STDs facilitate the spread of HIV infection and serve as indicators for low condom use and other high risk sexual behaviors. The majority of brothel-based sex workers report at least some sex without condoms with their clients. Among the clients, such as rickshaw pullers and truck drivers, about 83 percent have never used condoms when buying sex. Now a day Injection Drug Users are increasing all over in Bangladesh. In Central Bangladesh, among 93.4 percent of over 500 injecting drug users, needle sharing is routine. These drug injectors are not an isolated population�??they are often married and sometimes sell sex to customers and their own blood to hospitals and clinics. Lack of knowledge may be creating most problems for Bangladesh of HIV/AIDS epidemic in future. While knowledge of HIV is nearly universal among sex workers and their clients, it is extremely low among the general population. In 1996-97, only 19 percent of women who have been married and 33 percent of men had ever heard of AIDS. In 2001, many still could not identify the basic routes of HIV transmission. By keeping South Africa outside, India has the largest number of people living with HIV, estimated at 5.1 million (range: 2.5 million �?? 8.5 million) in 2003. Most infections are acquired sexually, but injecting drug use is playing a bigger role than previously thought. It is also a great threat for Bangladesh, because every day a large number of people are going to India for various reasons. Bangladesh has twenty custom and immigration point in the border with India, and Indian track crosses of this border every day with loaded goods. But Indian track drivers are highly infected HIV/AIDS. So it is also creating the scope of scattering HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh.

HIV / AIDS Complementary Treatment

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 15:39:00 +0000

HIV/AIDS: COMPLEMENTARY MANAGEMENT VIA IMMUNE-ENHANCEMENT

Latest technology complementary and supportive products are achieving remarkable results.

A leading firm of clinical consultants who have been contracting to Medical Aid Funds to manage approximately 6 500 persons living with HIV/AIDS on an ongoing basis for many years, reports as follows:

"We are contracted to render HIV disease management services to numerous patients of several medical schemes. We have been using Phytogard as an immune booster for the past 4 years with exceptional results.

Some patients are currently controlled on Phytogard alone and maintain or improve their CD4 counts while reducing Viral Loads.

Five of our contracted medical schemes are funding the inclusion of Phytogard in our disease management protocols."

The success of Phytogard is mainly due to Foodstate*tm technology. For the first time in history specialised vitamin and mineral combinations are presented to the body as food. Utility is improved by up to 15 times compared to chelated chemical isolates and inorganics.

The unique, synergistic and cost-efficient combination of ingredients in Phytogard has been developed in collaboration with leading laboratories from all over the world. They consist of vitamins A and B12, Selenium and Zinc, all in Foodstate*tm form, n-Acetyl Cysteine, Betasitosterols and Alpha Lipoic Acid.

These products can add significant value to complementary health services worldwide.

For more information, please contact Jan Greeff in Barberton, South Africa

Tel. +2713 712 2436 e-mail to grewe@absamail.co.za. SMS only to +278 454 838 90 or visit http://wellness.oppiweb.com.

AIDS/HIV Information

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 15:38:00 +0000

AIDS is an acronym for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome it causes a destruction of the immune system. It is the most advanced stage of the HIV virus (HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus). AIDS is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the presence of a positive HIV antibody test and one or more of the illnesses known as opportunistic infections.

The HIV virus, type 1 or 2 is widely known to be the cause of AIDS. HIV breaks down and attacks your T cells so your body is unable to defend itself against different infections. The HIV virus also attacks your peripheral nervous system, this causes nerve and muscle pain, especially in the feet, legs, and hands.

HIV is spread through direct contact with semen or blood of an individual that is infected. This can be transferred in many ways the most common is unprotected sexual intercourse. Other means of infection are infected blood transfusions, mother to infant (at time of birth, or through breast milk), sharing needles with an infected person, and rarely a healthcare worker that gets pricked with an infected needle.

Often people who are infected with HIV have few symptoms and in some cases there are none. Other times, symptoms of HIV are confused with other illnesses such as the flu. This may be severe, with swollen glands in the neck and armpits, tiredness, fever and night sweats. This is where as much as 9 out of 10 of the infected individuals will develop AIDS. At this point the person may feel completely healthy and not even know that he/she has the virus. The next stage begins when the immune system starts to break down and the virus becomes more aggressive in damaging white cells. Several glands in the neck and armpits may swell and stay swollen for an extended period of time without any explanation. As this disease progresses boils or warts may spread over the body. They may also feel tremendously tired, night sweats, high fevers, chronic diarrhea, and they may lose a considerable amount of their body weight. Most cases have shown thrush as a symptom as well. At this point the person is in the final stages of HIV--AIDS. Severe chest infections with high fever are common and survival rate is above 70% but decrease with each recurrence.

A person is diagnosed with AIDS when he/she has one or more positive HIV screening and the presence of an AIDS defining condition. Some of the common conditions include but are not limited to: Meningitis, Encephalitis, Dementia, Pneumonia, Kaposi sarcoma, and Lymphoma. There is also a blood test called an Immune Profile that can be done. This test is used to measure the loss of immunity and help decide on the best treatment. There is a test that is rarely used due to its high cost, it is known as a Viral Load: This test detects the virus itself, and also measures the amount of HIV in the blood. It shows how quickly the HIV infection is likely to advance. A high viral load suggests that the person may progress rapidly to AIDS.

Although there is no cure for AIDS there are medical treatments that aide in prolonging, and maintaining the best quality of life possible. These include two nucleoside inhibitors, lamivudine and zidovudine. Actual treatment plans will vary with each patient, along with the physical aspect of this disease. The psychological side has to be addressed in order for a treatment plan to be effective.

The easiest way to escape contracting this disease is to avoid the risk factors that you are in control of. Such as: unprotected sex, not sharing a needle, and if you are in the healthcare field be sure to use all precautions necessary to avoid an accidental prick from a possible infected needle (remember that in this diseases early stages it is common for the person not to even know they are infected). Today AIDS is the fifth leading cause of death among all adults aged 25 to 44 in the United States. Among African-Americans in the 25 to 44 age group, AIDS is the leading cause of death for men and the second leading cause of death for women. Our society needs to become aware that by not protecting ourselves we are killing ourselves and that this has to stop.

Ayurvedic Management of HIV/AIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 15:37:00 +0000

At present, there is no scientifically proved cure for HIV /AIDS. Globally, the number of infected HIV /AIDS patients is increasing at an alarming rate; with a current estimate of 33.2 million people who are living with HIV 1. Hence, there is a dire need to search for a safe, effective and economical treatment for HIV /AIDS. In a retrospective study in 55 patients, Ayurvedic treatment has proved to be very promising in the management of HIV/AIDS. Fifty-Five adult patients were given Ayurvedic treatment for HIV/AIDS, during the period from April 1999 to November 2004.Each patient had tested positive for HIV/AIDS on at least 2 different occasions. No patient was taking anti-retroviral drugs at the time of commencing Ayurvedic treatment. All patients were started on treatment after written, informed consent. The Ayurvedic Herbal Combination ( AHC ) comprises of eleven different herbs in different dosage strengths, based upon their respective potencies, reported anti-viral and immunomodulatory properties, and their traditional usage according to Ayurvedic principles of medicine 2 -4 .The constituents of AHC with their respective dosages are as follows:-Terminalia arjuna: 250 mg. ;Zinziber officinale: 250 mg. ;Phyllanthus niruri :1 gm ;Glycyrrhiza glabra:1gm. ;Withania somnifera:1gm. ;Eclipta alba: 250mg. ;Centella asiatica: 250mg. ;Boerhavia diffusa: 250mg. ;Emblica officinalis: 250mg. ;Tinospora cordifolia: 250mg. ;Rubia cordifolia: 250mg. This AHC was dispensed in a combined dose of 5 gms. t.i.d., to be taken with water after meals. Aqueous herbal extracts of all the medicines were used, in tablet form. All patients were advised to eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet. Therapeutic counseling sessions were conducted regularly to help the patients achieve mind relaxation, to modify their risk behavior , and to increase adherence and compliance to therapy. All patients were followed up at monthly intervals. Detailed clinical examination was done at each visit and significant findings were recorded. In addition, in affording and willing patients, investigations like CBC, Hb, Liver and Renal functions, X-Ray of chest, Western Blot, CD4 count and Viral Load were done wherever possible. Other investigations were done, if required, for Opportunistic Infections (O.I.).All O.I. were promptly and aggressively treated with modern medicines. A close watch was kept for adverse reactions of the drugs. Therapeutic outcome was assessed by overall clinical examination, change in Karnofsky score (assessment for overall well-being of patients), change in weight, occurrence and response to O.I., and change in CD4 and Viral Load values. Maximum number of patients was in the age ranging from 20 - 39 years (80 %). Of the total number of 55 patients, 39 were male (71 % ) and 16 were female (29 %), with the male: female ratio being 2.4: 1. There were 7 couples who took treatment together. Of the 55 patients, 5 patients died, 42 patients took treatment for varying periods and then stopped treatment, while 8 patients continued treatment till the end of the study period. The 5 patients who died were critically ill at the time of presentation, and died mostly within the first two months of starting Ayurvedic treatment. The cause of death varied ; 1 patient died from cirrhosis of the liver, 3 died of extensive Pulmonary Tuberculosis (multi-drug resistant) and 1 died of a combination of Pulmonary Tuberculosis and demyelination disease of the brain. In the 50 patients who were alive till the time of their last follow-up , there was an average weight-gain of 2.3 kgs.(range = - 4 to + 7.5 kgs), usually within the first 3 months. In those patients who took continuous treatment for more than 3 months, the Karnofsky score increased from an average of 75.9 at the commencement of treatment to 87.4 at the last follow-up. Almost all the patients had 1-3 O.I. at the time of presentation. Other than Tuberculosis, all the O.I. cleared up rapidly within the first 2 months of treatment. Long-term administration of Ayurvedic medicines (upto 30 months) did not seem to have any major adverse effects. In fact, in a few patients, the tests for liver and renal function appeared to normalize further, with treatment. Haemoglobin readings gradually improved in those patients taking regular, prolonged treatment.The most striking effect of the Ayurvedic medicines was on the Viral Load and CD4 counts. Because of financial constraints, only 15 patients (27 % ) agreed to do either the Viral Load or the CD4 count, or both. In most patients, there was a definite and steady decrease in the Viral Load, and an increase in the CD4 cell counts. Antiretroviral medicines are the mainstay in the modern treatment of HIV/AIDS. However, a plethora of side-effects, development of resistance to drugs and escalating treatment costs are serious concerns. In the absence of a definite cure for HIV/AIDS, Ayurvedic medicines may provide a useful alternative for long-term management of patients, since these medicines are economical and devoid of serious side-effects. However, scientific research is necessary to determine efficacy of these medicines. This retrospective study is one such effort to assess long-term therapeutic effects of an Ayurvedic Herbal Combination in the management of HIV /AIDS. In this study, 4 patients died within the first 2 months of commencing treatment. Onset of therapeutic effect is slow with Ayurvedic medicines, and these patients probably could not benefit from Ayurvedic treatment. This emphasizes the need to start treatment as early as possible in immuno-compromised patients. The causes of death indicate that Tuberculosis and CNS involvement are major killers in HIV patients. Multi-drug resistance to Tuberculosis is also a major concern. 16 patients ( 29% ) did not come back after just one ( 11% ) or two ( 18% ) visits. The reasons cited were, a complete inability to pay for treatment, or a search for a �??better�?? or a �??guarenteed cure�??. Fortunately, perceptions have changed in the last few years. Even illiterate patients from the lower socio-economic strata are no longer asking for a �??guarantee�?? or a �??cure�??. �??Long-term management with minimum expenses�?? is a mantra being readily accepted by the HIV positive patient of today. All the patients who took medicines regularly, had a high-protein diet and kept themselves busy, improved very well and put on weight. Even 2 to 3 years after stopping Ayurvedic treatment, most of the patients are doing very well, some inspite of very low CD4 counts. This is probably one of the biggest long-term advantages of taking Ayurvedic medicines for HIV /AIDS. However, patients with socio-economic difficulties and a lot of psychological pressure who could not have access to regular treatment, started losing weight after initially improving with treatment. A comprehensive management of each patient thus needs to address several issues relevant to each individual patient. This study also brought forth some interesting results. One patient who subsequently died, had severe demyelinating disease of the brain (as diagnosed in a major hospital), and had lost most of his motor control and sensory senses, since several months. After being given Ayurvedic treatment for about 1 ½ months he became alert, and could speak clearly, albeit temporarily, for 1 week. Another patient with Nephrotic syndrome resulting in long-standing generalized oedema (2 years ) had complete regression of the oedema after 2 months of Ayurvedic treatment without any other treatment. One HIV positive patient with suspected malignancy of lung in the right upper lobe was steadily losing weight. After starting Ayurvedic treatment, he started putting on weight. Another patient with history suggestive of HIV Encephalopathy was semi-conscious at presentation. He was passively fed on liquid diet and a combination of both modern drugs and Ayurvedic treatment. This patient be! came ambulatory within 2 weeks, and after 2 months of treatment he was faring well, even with a CD4 count of just 6.The above 4 instances indicate that the Ayurvedic medicines may have multi-faceted properties and need further evaluation. Thus,the retrospective study of 55 HIV positive adult patients treated with an Ayurvedic Herbal combination from April 1999 to November 2004 proved the Ayurvedic medicines to be highly effective as anti-viral and immuno-stimulant,and safe on long-term use. A nutritious diet, Ayurvedic baseline therapy, timely allopathic treatment of Opportunistic Infections and regular counseling support appears to be an ideal combination in the management of HIV/ AIDS patients. References 1. UNAIDS. Global Summary of the AIDS Epidemic. Update December 2007. 2. Foundation for Integrative AIDS Research. Potential Anti- HIV Herbs. 15/9/2002. 3. Sharma P.V. Vegetable Drugs. Vol. II. IV Edition. Chaukhamba Publications.1978. 4. Dahanukar S A, Kulkarni R A, Rege N N. Pharmacology of Medicinal Plants and Natural Products. Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 2000; 32: S81 - S118.

Voice of HIV, AIDS dies of pneumonia

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 16:23:00 +0000

Autum Aquino of Bangor, whose early advocacy for AIDS awareness and education brought her national recognition, died unexpectedly Thursday at Eastern Maine Medical Center.

Aquino was exposed to human immunodeficiency virus in her mother�??s womb and diagnosed with the infection when she was 2 years old. After the deaths of her parents, she was raised by relatives in Hampden. She was just 23 when she died.

Aquino was well-known in Maine and nationally for her openness in discussing her HIV status, for her ongoing efforts to raise public awareness about HIV and AIDS, especially among teens and young adults, and for her high energy and optimistic nature.

On Friday, Aquino�??s sister Ja�??Nette Agosto Converse, 26, of Unity said her outgoing younger sister�??s death was sudden and unexpected. Aquino had been healthy and active, working in a local retail store and living with her fiance in an apartment in Bangor.

But earlier this week, Converse said, Aquino contracted a bacterial sinus infection that developed into pneumonia despite the antibiotic that was prescribed for her.

Early Thursday morning, Aquino was taken by ambulance to EMMC with a high fever, became unconscious and by Thursday evening had slipped into a coma. Diagnostic tests detected no brain activity; she died at about 9:30 p.m., Converse said.

"We�??re completely shell-shocked," Converse said. "But if we had to lose her, I�??d rather have her go like this."

The suddenness and severity of her sister�??s final illness was related to her weakened immune system, Converse said, but in recent years, Aquino�??s day-to-day health had been stable.

"Autum had a normal life," she said. "She needed to take her medication, but she lived life on her own terms. She was an amazing person."

Aquino was born in 1985 to Terry Dannemiller. Dannemiller had been exposed to HIV during her relationship with Aquino�??s father, who abused intravenous drugs. Aquino�??s father died when she was 4 years old.

Dannemiller was a fierce advocate for victims of the stigmatizing illness, speaking openly about her HIV status and encouraging her young daughters to do the same.

After their mother�??s death from AIDS in 1993, Autum and her sister were raised in Hampden by their aunt and uncle Lynn and Brad Woods, who now reside in Dixmont.

Autum attended Hampden schools and graduated from Hampden Academy in 2003. School nurse Barb Parent recalled her as "one of the most positive people I�??ve ever seen."

"When she first moved to our district when she was in middle school, we held a public forum [about HIV and AIDS]," Parent said. "She wanted people to know. She didn�??t want to hide it. She wanted to be available to answer people�??s questions. She was the first student to come out and say, �??I have HIV.�??"

To the community�??s credit, Parent said, parents attending that first meeting were compassionate and accepting. They were more worried about the possibility of sickening the medically vulnerable youngster than they were about the unlikely possibility that she might spread HIV to their children.

Aquino�??s advocacy continued throughout her tenure at Hampden Academy. She helped establish an HIV awareness group at the school, made presentations at other area schools and spoke at a state conference on HIV sponsored by the Department of Education.

She was also a good student and maintained an active extracurricular schedule, including choir, drama, cheerleading, French club and more.

"She was just incredible," Parent recalled. "She took good care of herself physically, but she also had an amazing attitude. I don�??t think I ever saw her without a smile on her face."

Aquino attended several semesters at St. Joseph College in Standish, her sister said Friday, but had recently decided to take a break. She had come back to Bangor to work and was living happily with her fiance, Richard Gamble.

"She had a job she enjoyed. She loved to shop and go dancing and hang out with her friends," Converse said.

Stories in local and national media, including The New York Times and Glamour magazine, kept Aquino in the spotlight. Converse, who herself is HIV-negative, said her sister remained a passionate advocate for HIV education and public awareness throughout her life.

"Her feeling was that the greatest power to control this disease was knowledge," she said. "People needed to know that it could happen to anybody and that there were things you could do to protect yourself and that you needed �?? and had the right �?? to do that."

Converse said the family plans a private memorial service.

Treatment For AIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 16:39:00 +0000

From the time that HIV/AIDS was identified (during the early 1980s) till date, there is no definite treatment that can completely cure a person of an HIV infection. The medicines usually prescribed by the doctors only offer symptomatic relief from the opportunistic infections associated with the disease.

All over the globe, medical research is in progress to develop that 'wonder drug' which can treat both HIV/AIDS and opportunistic infections at the same time. However, such a wonder drug has not been developed as yet. Therefore, doctors continue to prescribe medicines to treat the opportunistic infections and to extend the life of the patient by improving the quality of their life.

The drawback with these medicines is that not only are they unable to cure HIV/AIDS, but they are very expensive and beyond the reach of a common man. Additional drawback is that these medicines have many severe side effects. Prolonged use of these medicines makes a person resistant to it and the body no longer responds to the treatment involving the use of these medicines.

However, medical researchers have come up with an effective drug called anti-retroviral drugs, to check the uncontrolled multiplication of the virus in the host's body. If these anti-retroviral drugs (which are available in three classes) are used in proper combinations and under strict medical supervision, then they have the capacity to significantly reduce the viral load in the blood of an HIV positive person. This method of treatment is known as HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy). Although this method has been successful in reducing the large number of HIV/AIDS related deaths across the globe, its drawback is that it is very expensive and can cause a lot of severe side effects. The worst part is that the anti-retroviral drugs used in the treatment cannot cure a person of HIV/AIDS.

About Author: Pauline Go is an online leading expert in medical industry. She also offers top quality medical tips : Find STD Testing Center , A Complete List of STD And Symptoms, Symptoms Of Bone Cancer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pauline_Go

What You Need to Know About HIV

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:04:00 +0000

To gain a better understanding of HIV, we must first explore how it is transmitted.

a. HIV is a sexually transmitted disease. What does this mean? The mucous membrane lines different parts of the body such as the lips, genital areas, nostrils etc. When the mucous membrane comes in contact with sexual secretions of an infected HIV patient, the virus transfers from one to another. This is why the main cause for the spread of AIDS is unprotected sexual intercourse.

b. HIV is also transmitted through infected blood. Therefore, one has to take extreme precaution when undergoing blood transfusions. It is always advisable to go to a reputed hospital or clinic where infected syringes are not used. Intravenous drug users and hemophiliacs are at high risk to get HIV.

c. HIV can be transmitted from a mother to a child either in the womb, during childbirth or duing breast-feeding. The chances of this happening have been reduced with drugs and other procedures.

Some of the early symptoms include sinusitis, bronchitis, otitis, pharyngitis, weight loss, dry cough, unexplained fatigue, unusual blemishes on the tongue, herpes zoster and oral ulcerations. During the more advanced stages patients may have chronic diarrhea, continuous fever, extreme weight loss, oral hairy leukoplakia and candidiasis and pulmonary tuberculosis.

It is extremely important for people to be tested for HIV. In some communities, partners are required to take the HIV test prior to marriage. This is because it not only affects the infected individual but also can spread to the spouse and the unborn child. It is difficult telling someone you love that you have AIDS. However, is very vital for their health and safety.

Doctors, nurses and Medicare professionals are also exposed to this virus as they deal with syringes and needles on a daily basis. If you have AIDS and if you are looking for a doctor, then do some preliminary research on the doctor before you meet him or her. The doctor should be reliable and must be aware of the nuances of the field. You should choose a doctor who you are comfortable with.

James Daugherty reports about the latest HIV news on his blog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Daugherty

Drug Available in UK Extends Life of HIV Patients

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:47:00 +0000

After more than 10 years of researching better treatments for HIV patients, a new drug had been found in UK to lengthen the life expectancy of the victims. The recent introduction of Pfizer's drug Celsentri (Maraviroc) is truly helpful for the patients as it guards the entrance of the immune system and blocks the HIV, which in turn delays the process of developing into AIDS.

Although the drug is not a cure-all treatment, this is an alternative that patients can look forward to since not all symptoms are remedied by other available HIV drugs in the market. Many AIDS organizations have shown interest in the drug saying this is a good sign of innovation and will aid to reduce the progression of HIV into AIDS.

Maraviroc comprised three drugs collectively made into one creating highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) that lengthens the lifespan of HIV patients.

But recent findings showed that some patients have resistance to the product making it not advisable for them to take.The drug was approved in August for public use in the U.S. under the brand name Selzentry. It is taken orally in combination with the other anti-retroviral drugs.

The drug's mode of action works as it becomes a microscopic blockade of the CCR5 receptor, which the HIV virus usually strikes, as it enters the immune system particularly the CD4-T-cells.

When the cell receptor is blocked, it makes the body more resistant to infection of the cells and slows down the process of developing the virus into full-blown AIDS. As this happens, complications are being delayed making the HIV-positive patients to live longer.

Maynard Joseph Delfin finished AB Journalism (cum laude) at the University of Santo Tomas. He has worked as book editor, deskman, copy editor and research and publications officer in leading publishing and research companies in the Philippines. Read more of his blogs at http://maynard_delfin.instablogs.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maynard_Joseph_Delfin

Information About HIV AIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 05:42:00 +0000

It is three decades since the discovery of the HIV virus but we are still lacking information about HIV / AIDS. According to UN AIDS estimates, there are now 33.2 million people living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. Although there is no foolproof cure or vaccine for HIV virus, the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) will ensure that medicines are available at an affordable cost even in third world countries. The search for the vaccine for AIDS remains the challenge for the world today.

Let us delve into some more information about HIV /AIDS. What is causing the spread of the infection? Ignorance. One in three youngsters in the world are still ignorant about how the infection spreads. We have to wake up to the harsh reality of the epidemic and the world's leaders must demonstrate real commitment to keep their promise. We cannot wait another quarter of a century for a vaccine. The need of the hour is the four Ms-motivation, money, medicines and manpower.

Let me burst the bubble on some common myths about HIV /AIDS.

Blood donation can cause HIV infection. People today are afraid of donating blood. HIV does not spread through donation of blood, as hospitals and blood banks use disposable syringes. Another myth is that HIV / AIDS spreads through mosquito and bug bites, air, saliva and touch. It is a very important piece of information about HIV / AIDS that it is not spread through mosquito and bug bites, air, saliva and touch.

Promiscuous men and women have largely been held responsible for fuelling the HIV /AIDS epidemic in the world. Stigma towards HIV-positive people needs to be countered if the threat of HIV /AIDS is to be overcome. Stigma is hard to track and its impact even harder to measure. Those vulnerable to and experiencing social stigma and discrimination will be puzzled if they were told that awareness and knowledge about HIV/AIDS is higher than before.Awareness is not translating into tolerance or a shedding of stigma. The good information about HIV / AIDS is that the number of people contracting HIV infection is dropping worldwide.

Protection against HIV/AIDS and preventing its spread is certainly a key message, but protection using stigma and alienation will go nowhere. It is always challenging to fight for legislation and better policy outcomes. Certain states have law against discrimination of HIV-positive children in schools. But laws and policies cannot be substitutes for a humane approach.

The Author, Mary Rose has authored several books including books related to health and fitness. For more information log on to http://www.casanads.com/bm/hf.htm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Rose

HIV/AIDS - Prevent It!

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 06:25:00 +0000

AIDS. The very sound of the word scares some, and makes other cringe. How did we let it get so far? There is no cure for very few diseases, and aids is one of them. Yet we still have unprotected sex, and we still share dirty needles. Come on! Granted, HIV/AIDS will never be a thing of the past, but we can do better in making the condition less common.

HIV/AIDS kills. In 2004, it was responsible for 3.5 million deaths globally. Thats not even the worst of it. 6.4 million people newly contracted the virus in the same year! Instead of diminishing the deadly condition, we are multiplying it. This needs to stop. It's as if 3.5 million wasn't enough dead in 2004, so we decided to boost the numbers for 2005. What are we thinking?!

Mothers can share AIDS with their infants during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding, and there is no way to stop it short of not becoming pregnant. But here is the list of preventable HIV/AIDS transmissions:

- Penetrative oral, vaginal, or anal sex (Unprotected)

- Blood transfusion

- In health care settings

- Drug injection

So if these ways are all preventable, why is HIV/AIDS still such a major problem?

The human race needs to wise up, stop sharing needles, screen blood transfusions, and USE CONDOMS. Let's beat AIDS before it beats us.

Feel free to reprint this article as long as you keep the article, this caption and author biography in tact with all hyperlinks.

Tyler Brooker is the owner and operator of Hiv And Aids - http://www.hiv-and-aids.com, which is the best site on the internet for all Hiv And Aids related information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tyler_Brooker

Human Rights, HIV/AIDS Highlight Bush's Upcoming Visit To Africa

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 16:46:00 +0000

Continued democratic reforms, human rights and economic opportunities will take center stage when President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush visit Benin, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Liberia on an official tour of Africa. The president last visited the continent in 2003, and will return to review U.S.-assisted economic development projects and programs to control and prevention of malaria and HIV/AIDS.

The president will meet with the leaders of the five countries during the one-week tour next month "to discuss how the United States can continue to partner with African countries to support continued democratic reform, respect for human rights, free trade, open investment regimes and economic opportunity across the continent," the White House said Friday.

Bush has called on Congress to double funding to $30 billion for the President's Emergency Plan for Aids Relief which has enabled over one million Africans to get antiretroviral treatment for AIDS.

SOURCE : http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7009834290

Media workshop on HIV-AIDS concluded

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 16:14:00 +0000

The two-day media workshop, organized by the School of Journalism, Southern Illinois University Carbondale (USA) in association with Guwahati Press Club for mid career journalists of Assam has come to a successful end today evening. The workshop was aimed at strengthening media professionalism and the NGO-media interface in India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka for HIV/AIDS coverage. It witnessed the participation of journalists and the Non-Governmental Organizations workers. The workshop was led by two American faculty members (James D. Kelly and Jyotika Ramaprasad) with experience in print and television journalism, photojournalism, and social marketing communication campaigns. James Kelly has worked for the Associated Press and for the South Bend (Indiana) Tribune newspaper and is Associate Professor at Indiana University. Similarly Jyotika Ramaprasad has worked on communication campaigns for international agencies including Asian Disaster Preparedness Center, Bangkok, Thailand and is Associate Professor at Southern Illinois University. The first session of the workshop was also addressed by Dr SI Ahmed, chairman of AIDS Prevention Society, who highlighted the convincing role of media in fighting against the HIV-AIDS menace around the globe. The participating journalists namely Ruby Barua Das, Juthika Das, Subhamoy Bhatacharjee, Kamal K. Das, Nabajit Barthakur and Jayant Konwar were awarded with certificates at the end of the workshop, informed Nava Thakuria, Secretary of Guwahati Press Club.

UNICEF World Aids Day Concert 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 15:29:00 +0000

If you wish to donet please click on rigth corners donet butten.

BERGEN COUNTY OBSERVES WORLD AIDS DAY

noreply@blogger.com (Nimi 1968) — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 15:20:00 +0000

Bergen County Executive Dennis McNerney and the County Department of Health Services observed World AIDS Day on December 3 at local high schools with programs that brought HIV/AIDS awareness to students. �??Bergen County students are recognizing the severity of this pandemic and using this knowledge to make healthy life choices,�?? said McNerney. �??Our youth should be commended for using World AIDS Day as an opportunity to honor those who have become infected or lost their lives due to HIV/AIDS.Students received valuable information on prevention through educational displays and an improvisational presentation performed by Reflections, a county-sponsored community outreach program for teenagers that presents improvised scenes based on issues that confront young people. World AIDS Day was established in 1988 by the World Health Organization in order to increase awareness, fight prejudice, and improve education regarding HIV/AIDS. The theme for World AIDS Day in 2007 and 2008 is �??leadership�??. It highlights the need for innovation, vision, and perseverance in the face of the AIDS challenge. This campaign calls on all sectors of society such as families, communities, and civil society organizations to take initiative and provide leadership on HIV/AIDS awareness. According to estimates by UNAIDS, the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS, there are now 33.2 million people living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. As of December 31, 2006, there were 2,910 reported cases of HIV/AIDS in Bergen County. HIV/AIDS is one of the most destructive epidemics in recorded history and has claimed an estimated 3.1 million lives, more than half have been children. Residents interested in free testing and counseling services are encouraged to contact the Bergen County Health Counseling Center at 201-487-3243. Residents can also log onto www.bergenhealth.org, or call 201-634-2704 for more information about HIV/AIDS.