World AIDS Day 2024: Expert debunks top 10 myths around HIV

World AIDS Day is observed on December 1 every year. Over the past 33 years, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been commemorating the day. The day is dedicated to spreading awareness about HIV prevention.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome affects many lives, families, and communities each year. This is why it is important to do a fact-check on several myths revolving around the condition. Dr. Manisha Singh, Senior Consultant - Gynaecologist & Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine & Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, says, ¡°There is a social stigma that surrounds the society that a mere touch of those affected with the disease would lead to transmission of the virus. However, the virus is only possible to transfer or transmit through the exchange of bodily fluids like blood, breast milk, semen, or vaginal discharge.¡±

On World AIDS Day, Dr. Singh debunks 10 common myths around HIV/AIDS:

Myths and Facts

Myth 1: HIV/AIDS is spread through casually shaking hands or via sharing food.

Fact: HIV is majorly spread through unsafe sexual practices, contaminated blood transfusions, and from mothers to children while breastfeeding.

Myth 2: Most specifically, only homosexuals or sex workers are the people who contract HIV/AIDS.

Fact: Anyone who indulges in an unsafe sexual practice or sharing of needles can contract HIV. No one is above contracting HIV regardless of their sexual orientation or profession.

Myth 3: The use of condoms does not help in protecting against the disease.

Fact: The consistent usage of condoms in a correct way can significantly minimise the risk of transmission of HIV.

Myth 4: AIDS is a death sentence.

Fact: If the disease is treated correctly (through antiretroviral therapy), it can help individuals to live long and healthy lives.

Myth 5: One can see HIV/AIDS.

Fact: An individual with HIV can appear healthy and symptom-free for many years.

Myth 6: HIV is transferred through an insect bite.

Fact: HIV cannot be transferred by insect bites or any casual contact with an infected person.

Myth 7: One can get HIV by kissing an infected person.

Fact: AIDS cannot be spread through kissing an infected patient unless you have bleeding gums.

Myth 8: Only young people can be infected by the infection.

Fact: People of all ages can get HIV, and older adults are rapidly being affected by the infection.

Myth 9: The treatment of AIDS is too expensive and inaccessible.

Fact: There are a number of government organisations that take the initiative to offer affordable or free HIV testing, treatment, and care.

Myth 10: There is no cure for HIV/AIDS.

Fact: Currently, there is no cure for HIV, but a treatment called antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage the virus and prevent the spread.

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