AIDS--Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome--is caused by HIV, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV impairs your immune system, making it less resistant to diseases and infections. HIV is transmitted through exposure to the bodily fluids of someone infected with HIV. This exposure most commonly occurs during unprotected sex, by sharing needles, through blood transfusions, or by contact with open wounds. Babies born to women with HIV can also become infected.
It's not a "gay thing." HIV infections
among all teenagers and young adults are increasing. Also, nearly one-fourth
of AIDS cases among adolescents and adults under age 25 stem from injection
drug use.
Alcohol and drugs affect your self-control. Alcohol and illicit drugs lower your inhibitions and impair your judgment. Drinking and drug use can lead to risky behaviors you're less likely to do if sober, including having unprotected sex. This increases your risk for exposure to HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Any drug use increases the risks for HIV/AIDS. Non-injection drugs also contribute to the spread of HIV/AIDS when users trade sex for drugs or money or when their judgment and decision-making skills are impaired.
Get the facts. Not having sexual intercourse is the most effective way to avoid STDs, including HIV/AIDS. For those who choose to be sexually active, the following HIV prevention activities can be effective:
Engaging in sexual activity that does not involve vaginal,
anal, or oral sex
Having intercourse with only one uninfected partner
Using latex condoms every time you have sex
Stay informed. Even though more effective drugs are now used to treat
HIV/AIDS, there is no cure or vaccine.
Know the risks. Even tobacco use impacts HIV/AIDS. Smokers with the HIV virus develop full-blown AIDS twice as quickly as nonsmokers.
How can you tell if you or someone else may already have HIV? If you have not shared a needle or had unprotected sex, it is very unlikely that you have HIV. The only way to be certain is to be tested. Most people with HIV do not have any visible symptoms for many years. Once symptoms do begin to show, some of the more common ones include:
1. Rapid weight loss
2. Profuse night sweats
3. Ongoing, unexplained fatigue
4. Swollen lymph glands
5. Diarrhea that lasts longer than a week
6. White spots or blemishes in the mouth or throat
7. Pneumonia
Do not assume you are infected if you have any of these symptoms. Each of these symptoms can easily be related to other illnesses. Again, the only way to determine for sure whether you are infected with HIV is to be tested.
What can you do to help someone whose substance abuse problem is putting them at risk for HIV/AIDS? Be a real friend. You might even save a life. Encourage your friend to stop using substances or seek professional help. For information and referrals, call the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information at 800-729-6686.
Resource:
For more information go to http://www.health.org/
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