The Number of People Living with HIV is Growing

The statistics of people in the world living with HIV or AIDS is staggering. When you hear reports that over a thousand people a day die of AIDS in South Africa, it can be overwhelming to even begin to comprehend. I’ve read quite a bit about AIDS research and AIDS statistics and, personally, my mind cannot even wrap itself around the concept that in places like South Africa, one in five people is currently infected. There are twelve people in my immediate family and to think that two or three of those people might be infected with HIV if we were surrounded by the same circumstances found in South Africa is a tough pill to swallow. Many know that AIDS is an epidemic but many people have yet to have a personal experience with it either through a relative or friend being infected. Once somebody has been infected with HIV, what changes do they need to make in their life?

In terms of protecting others from also contracting HIV, there are several things a person who has HIV should and should not do. Abstaining from sex altogether is the best way to protect others from contracting HIV. However, if an infected person chooses to continue sexual relations, they should alert all new partners in order to take the proper precautions. Also, somebody who has recently discovered they have HIV should use all means necessary to alert all previous partners of his/her new condition so they can also get tested. During sexual relations, including oral sex, condoms and/or dental dams should always be used, both consistently and efficiently. Although these methods of protection are not 100% effective, they are the best line of defense (other than abstinence) available. As somebody infected with HIV, it should go without saying, never share anything that could have your fresh blood on it, including razors, toothbrushes or drug needles. Naturally, donating blood or plasma is also out of the question.

There is no set time when HIV will develop into full-blown AIDS, but there are ways you can keep yourself healthy for as long as possible. The very first action you will want to take is to choose a doctor who is familiar with treating HIV and follow his/her advice to the letter, especially when it comes to the medications prescribed. Keep yourself healthy by eating the right foods, exercising and eliminating negative influences in your life, including alcohol, smoking and drugs. Be consistent in getting your flu and pneumonia shots to protect yourself during these seasons. Finally, always consult your physician when you are experiencing symptoms out of the norm or if you have any questions on how to keep yourself safe and healthy.

As a patient living with HIV, fortunately, there are a wide variety of resources to get help from, whether your needs are emotional, financial or medical. Local churches, AIDS organizations and the American Red Cross are resources you can use to get referrals to AIDS support groups. If you prefer not to meet with others face-to-face, you may have luck joining an online support group to communicate with others about the issues you are facing and the challenges lying ahead. There are also ways to turn this situation into one where you can reach out and help others by speaking to the public about living with HIV or by performing volunteer work for other HIV victims.