December has already arrived; welcome to cold weather, snow, gaudy decorations, flashing lights, and hot chocolates (with soy, obvi). December marks the last month of the year, Christmas, gift giving, carol singing, and also AIDS. Wait, what? Most people do not associate the same month that Christmas occurs in with a fatal pandemic. December 1st has been World AIDS Day since 1988. AIDS has killed more than 25 million people between 1981 and 2007. Every single day, 700 babies are born with HIV. As of 2010, the world has 34 million people living with HIV. James W. Bunn and Thomas Nettler proposed the idea of having an awareness day to the United Nations board in 1987. With enough push, a day of global recognition was created and awareness has spread; the UNAIDS, or Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, has a year-round campaign for prevention and education. Each year, a theme or slogan is attached. From "One World. One Hope.", to "AIDS: Men Make a Difference", the goal is the same with different focuses. Since 2011, the theme has been "Getting to Zero". Every day, we stride a little closer to curing this malicious infection.
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| A symbol of solidarity for AIDS victims and survivors |
On December 1st, government and health officials will make speeches and announcements to raise awareness of this growing threat. Popes have announced support; the White House erects a 28-foot red ribbon to show support. Major companies will "celebrate" in different ways; Apple stores across the country will turn their logos [RED] to show support for the cause. They have a few products that raise a great deal of money for the Global Fund. Set up to attempt to cure AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, the Global Fund has generated over $150 million to the search for the cure. Starbucks has always been a huge supporter of Product [RED], which is a global campaign to raise money for the Global Fund. For each handcrafted beverage sold today, Starbucks will donate 10¢ to this extraordinary cause. (Go buy a freaking latte or at least a hot chocolate! NOW!) Giorgio Armani, Converse, and Nike also have products that, when purchased, send money straight to the Global Fund. With all of this funding and research, the world is one step closer to fighting this vile and ruthless virus. As times of joy and celebration roll in, just remember to take a look at the bigger picture.
Did you know?
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome has plagued the world since the early 20th century. It has been said it originated with non-human primates in West-central Africa with SIV, or simian immunodeficiency virus. Initially, flu-like symptoms may appear, followed by a prolonged period without symptoms. This is where the problem lies. It is very hard to catch it before it takes a complete hold on the body. As soon as the infection sets in, the immune system is shot and the body is exceedingly prone to other infections, diseases, and even tumors. The immune system needs T cells to fight agains diseases and infections. HIV starts breaking down these necessary cells so the body is defenseless and starts attacking itself. The progression from HIV to AIDS is surprisingly steep. At each stage, the depletion of the T cells in the immune system decreases. Primary HIV is asymptomatic. Stage 1 HIV is asymptomatic as well, with occasional lymph node enlargement. Stage 2 HIV brings mucus membranes on the eyes, nose, ears, mouth, and other orifices. Recurring upper respiratory infections also show up. Stage 3 HIV consists of chronic diarrhea, severe bacterial infections, and tuberculosis. Stage 4 HIV is considered AIDS. The brain starts to become inflamed and toxoplasmosis occurs. Brain cells are lost and schizophrenia may occur. The infection is more likely to spread to the heart, liver, or other organs. Fungal infections break out on the tongue, esophagus, trachea, lungs, and heart. All organs start to break down and attack each other.
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| Diagram of the structure of HIV |
As of 2012, there is no vaccine for AIDS. Antiviral therapy does exist and has been shown to slow down progression and help strengthen the immune system. Progress is happening. We can win this battle. We can overcome and overpower HIV/AIDS. Getting to zero starts with awareness and education.
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