Breaking the Myths: Overcoming Fear and Stigma Through HIV Awareness and Treatment

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) remains a significant global health concern, but with medical advancements, early detection, and proper treatment, individuals with HIV can lead long, healthy lives. However, misinformation and stigma often prevent people from getting tested or seeking timely medical care. It’s time to change that narrative.

Testing Is Key: Know Your HIV Status

HIV infection is not curable but.… It is strongly preventable, and once it is acquired, it is manageable and treatable.The only way to know if you have HIV is by getting tested.

Many people live with the virus for years without symptoms, unknowingly putting themselves and others at risk. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment, reducing the virus to undetectable levels and preventing transmission. If you’re unsure of your status, don’t hesitate—get tested today.

In the previous decades, since the diagnosis of HIV and AIDS, it was thought of as a condition almost like a cancer with no hope for the affected person along with the stigmatisation by his/her society. 

In addition, the lack of awareness by the general population about treatment advancement and strong measures for its prevention, this disease is still considered as an unmanageable, shameful, fearful and depressive kind of illness by the patient as well as by the society.

Challenges in Controlling HIV Spread

Despite global efforts to limit HIV transmission, several societal factors continue to fuel its spread. Some barriers may take decades or even centuries to overcome, such as:

✔ Gender inequalities – Women in some regions lack the autonomy to make decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.

✔ Health disparities – Access to healthcare varies widely, making testing and treatment difficult for vulnerable populations.

However, many other factors are within our control and can be addressed immediately with proper awareness, preventive measures, and strong support from both society and governments.

Easily Adaptable Preventive Methods for HIV

Preventing HIV transmission is straightforward when individuals and communities take the right steps. Some of the most effective methods include:

1. Regular Testing and Early Detection

• The only way to know your HIV status is through testing.

• Early detection allows for timely treatment, reducing complications and preventing further spread.

• Testing should be part of routine healthcare, especially for individuals at higher risk.

  
  

2. Safe Sexual Practices

• Consistently using condoms during intercourse significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission.

• Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective medication that can prevent HIV in high-risk individuals.

• Open conversations about sexual health help reduce stigma and promote responsible behaviours.

  
  

3. Safe Blood Transfusions and Medical Procedures

• Always ensure that blood transfusions come from screened sources.

• Use sterilized needles and syringes, whether in medical settings or for personal use (e.g., tattoos, piercings, or injections).

  
  

4. Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT)

• Pregnant women should get tested for HIV as part of prenatal care.

• If HIV-positive, following antiretroviral treatment (ART) can lower transmission risk to less than 1%.

• Breastfeeding should be avoided, as HIV can be passed to the baby through breast milk.

  
  

5. Ending Stigma and Encouraging Treatment

• Stigma and fear prevent many from seeking testing or treatment.

• People living with HIV deserve compassion, support, and understanding.

• Treating HIV early and achieving an undetectable viral load (U=U) means the virus cannot be transmitted to sexual partners.

  
  

HIV Prevention: Key Guidelines for High-Risk Situations

If maintaining complete abstinence is challenging, it is crucial to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.

Safe Practices for People Who Inject Drugs (PWID)

• Never share needles or syringes. Sharing injection equipment is a high-risk factor for HIV transmission.

• Always use disposable syringes. Ensure that every injection is done with a new, sterile syringe.

• Harm Reduction Programs: In some countries, health authorities provide disposable syringes as part of a harm reduction approach to prevent the spread of HIV and other infections among people who inject drugs (PWID).

It’s important to note that preventive medicines (PrEP and PEP) have limited evidence regarding safety and efficacy for PWID, so strict adherence to harm reduction practices is essential.

HIV Prevention with Prophylactic Medications

• Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): A medication taken before engaging in high-risk activities to reduce the chance of HIV infection.

• Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): Must be started within 72 hours after potential HIV exposure to minimize the risk of transmission. The sooner it is started, the more effective it is.

Remember, the only way to know about your HIV status is to test it. Do not hesitate in testing.

Dr. Syyeda Hisala Rehman

Consultant Internal Medicine Saudia Arabia