AIDS: A Biological Insight into the Deadliest Immune Disorder

Name: Shayan Debnath

Class: XII

School: [Your School Name Here]

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Introduction to AIDS

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a condition caused by HIV (Human

Immunodeficiency

Virus) that leads to the weakening of the immune system, making individuals vulnerable to other

infections and diseases.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Historical Background

The first cases of AIDS were reported in 1981 in the United States. Since then, it has become a

global epidemic affecting millions of people worldwide.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Virus Responsible: HIV

HIV is a retrovirus that targets and destroys CD4+ T-cells in the human body. This leads to a

gradual failure of the immune system.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Structure of HIV

HIV has a complex structure comprising an envelope, viral RNA, and essential enzymes like reverse

transcriptase and integrase.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Types of HIV

There are two main types of HIV: HIV-1, which is more common and aggressive, and HIV-2, which

is

less transmissible and mostly confined to West Africa.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Mechanism of Infection

HIV binds to the CD4 receptors on T-cells, enters the host cell, and integrates its genetic material

to replicate.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Role of CD4+ T-cells

These are white blood cells that play a major role in protecting the body from infections. HIV

targets and destroys these cells.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Progression from HIV to AIDS

Without treatment, HIV gradually progresses through acute infection, clinical latency, and

eventually AIDS.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Transmission of HIV

HIV is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids,

and breast milk.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Myths vs Facts

Myth: HIV spreads through touch. Fact: HIV cannot spread via casual contact like hugging or

shaking

hands.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Laboratory Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes tests like ELISA, Western Blot, and PCR to detect HIV antibodies or the virus

itself.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Recent Diagnostic Advances

Modern techniques include rapid tests, 4th-generation tests detecting both antibodies and antigens.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)

ART involves using a combination of drugs to control HIV. It improves life expectancy and quality of

life.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Modern Treatment Protocols

Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) is a combination of drugs tailored to the patient's

condition.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Prevention Methods

Safe sex, regular testing, needle exchange programs, and use of ART in HIV-positive individuals

help

prevent spread.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Mother-to-Child Transmission

Proper ART during pregnancy, safe delivery practices, and avoiding breastfeeding can prevent

transmission.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Vaccination Efforts

Despite several trials, no effective HIV vaccine is available yet. Research is ongoing.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Genetic Research and HIV

Some people carry mutations in the CCR5 gene that make them resistant to HIV. Gene editing is

being

explored.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Global Statistics

According to WHO, nearly 39 million people were living with HIV in 2023. Sub-Saharan Africa is

most

affected.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

AIDS in India

India has the third-largest HIV epidemic in the world. NACO manages the national response.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Social Stigma

People with HIV/AIDS often face discrimination, leading to isolation and reluctance to seek

treatment.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Psychological Impact

Living with HIV can lead to anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal, affecting overall health.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Role of NGOs and Government

NGOs play a key role in education and treatment. Government provides free ART and awareness

programs.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Importance of Sex Education

Education helps dispel myths, promote safe practices, and reduce stigma.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Future of AIDS Research

Gene therapy, new drug formulations, and vaccine development are key research areas.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Conclusion and Reflection

AIDS remains a major health challenge. Knowledge, awareness, and compassion are vital to

tackling

it.

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Structure of HIV

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

Global HIV Prevalence Map

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

HIV Infection Cycle

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 AIDS: A Biological Insight

AIDS Awareness Ribbon

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