Essay on Understanding HIV/AIDS - 877 Words

In today’s world HIV/AIDS has become an epidemic that has not only challenged the research of our medical professionals, but also the lives of several children born with this infectious disease. In order to understand this epidemic we have to travel the path in which it was discovered. In 1985, human immunodeficiency also known as HIV was discovered by scientist and that discovery alone brought up many questions with very little definite answers. Due to this discovery several people are in search of an understanding cure for this disease, but the question still remains what is AIDS and how can we prevent the transmission from mother to fetus? Acquired immune deficiency syndrome, also known as AIDS, is a condition†¦show more content†¦Because of this fear many children born with this disease are apprehensive about sharing their status with their friends, a girlfriend, or a boyfriend. Mainly because they feel theyll be looked at differently or isolated by the individua l who may not have a clear understanding of how the disease is transmitted or how they contracted it. According to Brooke Minters she stated their challenges are daunting and she elaborates by saying say theyve dealt with losing sick parents and friends, disclosing their status, engaging in sex with uninfected partners, and enduring medical side effects with unknown consequences. Unfortunately, their battle to live life to its fullest is far more challenging for many born with this disease to endure. However, many find ways to become a model for those living with the disease and for those who may or may not know their status. Brooke Minters reports that a young man, Lafayette Sanders of Philadelphia, was born with the disease at birth have decided to become a peer educator for iChoose2live, a youth program that encourages HIV awareness and career building. She quoted Sanders who stated I want to destigmatize it. Brooke reports, Sanders now 24, stated My main goal is to get people to talk about HIV. This is a sensitive topic for many and several have made a conscientious decision to a void, ignore, overlook, or completely forget aboutShow MoreRelatedHiv / Aids And Aids1472 Words   |  6 PagesHIV/AIDS is the major ongoing issue attacking sub-Saharan Africa. The damage caused by HIV/AIDS strips families, communities, and increases poverty. In Kenya, the plague has mainly targeted those in the fertile and reproductive age groups. 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