HIV/AIDS in the Philippines

HIV/AIDS in the Philippines (pronunciation: /ˌeɪtʃaɪˈviː/ /ˈeɪdz/ in the /fɪlɪˈpiːnz/) refers to the current state and historical progression of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic in the Philippines.

Etymology

The term "HIV/AIDS" is an acronym derived from the full names of the diseases. "HIV" stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which is the virus that causes AIDS. "AIDS" stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, which is the final stage of HIV infection. The term "in the Philippines" is added to specify the geographical context of the topic.

Definition

HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, which help the immune system fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells in the body, making the person more likely to get infections or infection-related cancers. Over time, HIV can destroy so many of these cells that the body can’t fight off infections and disease. This stage of HIV infection is AIDS.

Prevalence in the Philippines

The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the Philippines has been increasing rapidly in recent years. According to the Department of Health, the Philippines has one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the world. The majority of new infections occur among young people aged 15-24.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention strategies include safe sex practices, regular HIV testing, and the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for those who are HIV-positive. Treatment involves taking medicines that slow the course of the virus and can help people with HIV live longer, healthier lives. In the Philippines, the government provides free antiretroviral therapy through the Department of Health.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on HIV/AIDS in the Philippines
Wikipedia's article - HIV/AIDS in the Philippines

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HIV/AIDS in the Philippines