The Nigeria Medical Association(NMA),Rivers State branch has urged Nigerians to commit to taking the right path in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The Public Relations Officer of NMA Rivers State branch,Dr. Siene Oluwatosin Orogun made the disclosure in a statement on Sunday,December 1,2024 in commemoration of World HIV/AIDS day marked every 1st December each year.
Dr.Orogun said “sveryone has the right to health, and we must advocate for equitable access to prevention, treatment, and care. Together, we can eliminate stigma, raise awareness, and work towards a future where everyone can live free from HIV/AIDS. Let’s stand united for health rights and empower individuals to take control of their health”.
Meanwhile the Chairman of NMA Rivers Dr Diamond Tamunokuro on behalf of SOC and SEC Commemorates World AIDS Day, which is observed annually on December 1st, serve as a platform to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, support those living with the virus, and honor those who have lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses.
NMA Rivers state branch in the statement said the theme for World AIDS Day 2024 is “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!” This theme highlights the fundamental human right to health and the need for equitable access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care services.
*Global Statistics*:
• Approximately 39.9 million people are living with HIV worldwide as of 2024.
• In 2023, around 1.5 million new HIV infections were reported.
• An estimated 650,000 people died from AIDS-related illnesses in 2023.
*Nigeria Statistics*:
• According to UNAIDS, the HIV prevalence rate for adults aged 15–49 in Nigeria is 1.3–1.4%, Nigeria has one of the largest HIV epidemics in the world, with about 2 million people living with HIV.
• Over 1.2 million individuals are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Nigeria, reflecting significant progress in treatment access.
*Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS*:
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells. If untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most severe phase of the infection, where the immune system is severely compromised.
*What is AIDS?*
AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection, marked by a significantly weakened immune system, leading to increased vulnerability to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
*Risk Factors/Causes*
• Engaging in unprotected sex with an HIV-positive partner
• Sharing needles or syringes
• Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth or breastfeeding
• Receiving blood transfusions with infected blood (more common in areas with inadequate screening)
*Symptoms*:
Early symptoms of HIV may include flu-like signs such as fever, sore throat, and fatigue. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:
• Rapid weight loss
• Recurring fever
• Extreme fatigue
• Prolonged swelling of lymph nodes
• Diarrhea lasting more than a week
• Pneumonia
*Treatments*:
While there is currently no cure for HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage the virus, allowing individuals to live long, healthy lives. Consistent treatment can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, preventing transmission.
*Prevention*:
• Abstinence
• Use condoms consistently and correctly
• Get tested regularly for HIV
• Limit the number of sexual partners
• Consider pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) if at high risk
• Ensure safe blood transfusions and needle-use practices