All about HIV infection: Causes, symptoms and treatment strategies

HIV infection manifests through symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, recurrent infections, and failure to thrive in children. (Image: Canva)

HIV infection poses significant risks to adolescents and young adults worldwide, exacerbated by various social, economic, and health factors. Adolescents, particularly girls and young women, are vulnerable to forced sexual initiation and exploitation, with reports indicating high susceptibility rates. Factors such as economic hardships can drive young women to engage in risky behaviours, including transactional sex, further increasing their HIV risk.

Risk factors and transmission

Here are the key points explaining the risk factors and transmission of HIV among young women based on Dr Santosh Kumar Aggarwal, Sr consultant physician, Internal Medicine, Marengo Asia hospitals Faridabad.

Forced sexual initiation: Victims of forced sexual initiation are at a heightened risk of HIV due to non-consensual and often unprotected sexual encounters.

Violence victimization: Individuals who experience violence, including sexual violence, are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviours that increase their vulnerability to HIV.

Risky sexual behaviours: Behaviours such as multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and substance abuse contribute significantly to the higher prevalence of HIV among young people.

Lack of education: Limited knowledge about HIV prevention and safe sex practices among young people increases their likelihood of contracting the virus.

Early sexual debut: Initiating sexual activity at a young age without adequate awareness of HIV risks can lead to higher rates of infection.

Poor mental health: Mental health issues can impair judgment and lead to riskier sexual behaviours, further increasing susceptibility to HIV.

Testing and treatment accessibility: Women often face greater barriers than men in accessing HIV testing and treatment services, resulting in delayed diagnosis and higher transmission rates from infected male partners.

Symptoms and diagnosis

HIV infection manifests through symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, recurrent infections, and failure to thrive in children. Early diagnosis through routine screening is crucial, especially for sexually active teens, to initiate timely treatment and prevent disease progression.

Prevention and treatment

Preventive measures include safe sex practices and avoiding shared needles among drug users. Treatment involves antiretroviral therapy (ART), which suppresses viral levels and reduces transmission risk. Regular HIV screening is recommended for all adolescents aged 13 and older, with frequency based on individual risk factors.

Understanding these aspects is pivotal in combating HIV/AIDS among young populations, ensuring early intervention and effective management of the disease.