Keeping HIV Away

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV weakens your immune system by destroying your T-cells until you are unable to fight off even minor illnesses. You can have HIV without any symptoms. Getting tested and starting treatment early gives you the best chance of living a long life.

Key Facts of HIV
·       HIV remains a major global public health issue, having claimed 40.4 million [32.9–51.3 million] lives so far with ongoing transmission in all countries globally; with some countries reporting increasing trends in new infections when previously on the decline.
·       There were an estimated 39.0 million [33.1–45.7 million] people living with HIV at the end of 2022, two thirds of whom (25.6 million) are in the WHO African Region.
·       In 2022, 630 000 [480 000–880 000] people died from HIV-related causes and 1.3 million [1.0–1.7 million] people acquired HIV.
·       There is no cure for HIV infection. However, with access to effective HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care, including for opportunistic infections, HIV infection has become a manageable chronic health condition, enabling people living with HIV to lead long and healthy lives.
·       WHO, the Global Fund and UNAIDS all have global HIV strategies that are aligned with the SDG target 3.3 of ending the HIV epidemic by 2030.
·       By 2025, 95% of all people living with HIV (PLHIV) should have a diagnosis, 95% of those should be taking lifesaving antiretroviral treatment (ART) and 95% of PLHIV on treatment should achieve a suppressed viral load for the benefit of the person’s health and for reducing onward HIV transmission. In 2022, these percentages were 86(%) [73–>98%], 89(%) 75–>98%] and 93(%) [79–>98%], respectively.

·       When considering all people living with HIV, 86% [73>–98%] knew their status, 76% [65–89%] were receiving antiretroviral therapy and 71% [60–83%] had suppressed viral loads.

The symptoms of HIV vary depending on the stage of infection.

 The disease spreads more easily in the first few months after a person is infected, but many are unaware of their status until the later stages. In the first few weeks after being infected people may not experience symptoms. Others may have an influenza-like illness including:

·       fever

·       headache

·       rash

·       sore throat.

The infection progressively weakens the immune system. This can cause other signs and symptoms:

 

·       swollen lymph nodes

·       weight loss

·       fever

·       diarrhoea

·       cough.

Without treatment, people with HIV infection can also develop severe illnesses:

·       tuberculosis (TB)

·       cryptococcal meningitis

·       severe bacterial infections

·       cancers such as lymphomas and Kaposi's sarcoma.

HIV causes other infections to get worse, such as hepatitis C, hepatitis B and mpox.

The best way to reduce your risk of HIV is to be aware of how it spreads and protect yourself during certain activities. Having sex without a condom and sharing needles to take drugs are the most common ways that HIV spreads.

HIV prevention involves strategies and measures aimed at reducing the risk of HIV transmission. Here are some key aspects of HIV prevention.

Safe Sex Practices:

Use condoms consistently and correctly during sexual intercourse to reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Consider using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at high risk of HIV.

   Regular Testing:

Get tested and know your partner's HIV status. Regular testing is crucial for early detection and timely intervention. Encourage routine HIV testing, especially for individuals engaging in high-risk behaviors.

·       Needle Exchange Programs:

For individuals who inject drugs, using clean needles and syringes can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Needle exchange programs provide sterile equipment and promote safer injection practices.

·       Medical Male Circumcision:

Studies have shown that male circumcision can reduce the risk of heterosexual transmission of HIV. However, it's important to note that circumcision does not provide complete protection, and other preventive measures should still be employed.

·       Antiretroviral Therapy (ART):

For individuals living with HIV, adhering to antiretroviral treatment not only improves health outcomes but also reduces the viral load in the body, making transmission less likely.

·       Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT):

Pregnant women living with HIV can take antiretroviral drugs to prevent transmitting the virus to their infants during childbirth and breastfeeding.

Education and Awareness:

·       Promote public awareness and education about HIV transmission, prevention, and stigma reduction.

Remember that a combination of these strategies, known as combination prevention, is often the most effective approach. Additionally, cultural sensitivity, human rights, and access to healthcare are crucial components of successful HIV prevention efforts.

For Early prevention contact National STD / AIDS control program Sri Lanka

Website : https://www.aidscontrol.gov.lk/

Contact No : +94 112 667 163

Belarus for Medical Studies

 

Belarus is a country where more than 7500 international students study medicine including over 2000 Sri Lankan student population. There are top medical universities in Belarus with an affordable fee structure and degrees (MD) recognized by the SLMC, GMC, ECFMG, AMC, WHO and other medical bodies.

Belarus is the ultimate destination for medicine studies for international students. The medical education field in Belarus is of great value. It is because of their worldwide degree recognition and since it is approved by WHO.

Belarus universities are owned the government and monitored by health ministry of Belarus hence study facilities, clinical and internship standards are maintained according to international standard and under graduates will facilitate with Total 20 Teaching Hospitals with bed capacity of 10,700 for their clinicals Belarus providing ample clinical exposure and practical training partnerships with government hospital with modern facilities modern innovative technologies and educational materials of a new generation (multimedia simulators, virtual programs) in the educational process with  highly educated staff thus receives modern medical education and Students can enhance their practical skills and get advanced knowledge directly in hospitals. Studies conduct in English medium in and focused on European standard education with 10:1 student to teacher ratio where students can interact with professors as one to one.

university has a diverse international student community. This can enhance your cultural experience and provide networking opportunities and student has ample of job opportunities all over the world.

Embracing Change on World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day is observed on November 14th every year, serving as a global reminder of the growing prevalence of diabetes and the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and management. This day was established by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to address the escalating health threat posed by diabetes worldwide.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which, if left uncontrolled, can result in serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness. The global prevalence of diabetes has been steadily increasing, reaching alarming levels. According to the IDF, approximately 537 million people were living with diabetes in 2021, and this number is expected to rise to 643 million by 2030 if decisive action is not taken.

World Diabetes Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the causes, symptoms, and consequences of diabetes. Education is a powerful tool in the fight against this silent epidemic. Communities, healthcare professionals, and policymakers must work together to disseminate information that promotes a better understanding of diabetes, including its risk factors and preventive measures.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which, if left uncontrolled, can result in serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness. The global prevalence of diabetes has been steadily increasing, reaching alarming levels. According to the IDF, approximately 537 million people were living with diabetes in 2021, and this number is expected to rise to 643 million by 2030 if decisive action is not taken.

One of the key messages on World Diabetes Day is the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent the onset of diabetes. Simple lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Community initiatives, educational programs, and workplace wellness campaigns can play a vital role in encouraging these positive lifestyle changes.

Should i study medicine?

The majority of Sri Lankan students will decide their career during the secondary school exam, such as the Advanced Level examination. At the end of secondary school, they will work on pursuing their dream. If you are a student interested and passionate in a science-related field with the capability, then you can work in a prestigious profession to become a recognized doctor at a leading medical university.

 Interest and passion for science and medical studies and commitment will make an impact on your journey; just take a minute and think. Are you genuinely interested in the field of medicine? Do you have a passion for science, healthcare, and helping others? It's important to have strong intrinsic motivation for pursuing a career in medicine. The road to medical school is demanding and long. Pre-medical education, medical school, and maybe years of residency and specialty all count as several years of hard study. Are you prepared to put in the necessary time and effort?

 The cost of a medical school can be high, so it's crucial to factor in any student loans you might need to take out. There are, however, other nations that also provide financial aid, scholarships, or loan forgiveness plans for medical students. Medicine can be emotionally demanding. You may encounter situations that are emotionally challenging, and it's important to have the resilience to cope with these experiences; hence, you want to be financially and emotionally stable.

Consider your long-term career goals. Are there specific specialties or areas of medicine that particularly interest you? Understanding your long-term goals can help inform your decision.

Think of yourself as your dream destination, and start today to make it happen.