HIV: A Challenge of the 21st Century

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV, is a virus that causes a condition in humans in which the immune system begins to fail, leading to life-threatening opportunistic infections – ones that can only be caused in individuals with a weak immune system. This condition is known as AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.

We have all heard of AIDS, its impact on life, social and economic conditions in areas such as Sub-Saharan Africa and most of us have an idea of what it is, or what the experts say it is. The disease has claimed over 25 million lives since the epidemic started – making it one of the most destructive pandemics in recorded history, it has severely affected the economies of countries such as Swaziland, where 61% of all deaths are believed to have been caused by HIV/AIDS.

I found a video in which Professor Deenan Pillay, Head of the Infection Department here at the University College of London (UCL) School of Life and Medical Sciences, elaborates on the challenges of HIV. Prof. Pillay explains that the cost of treatment for HIV (the initial virus) is very expensive, which makes it harder for the worst affected countries, such as those in Southern Africa, to afford treatment for the people. This means that over 50% of the people who need treatment are not getting it, despite efforts by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to push for more treatment in resources for poor countries, progress is slow and lives are being lost. He goes on to explain other difficulties we face in trying to limit the spread of the virus, whilst research is underway to develop treatment for the disease – a challenge scientists have been trying to address for over a decade.

There is no question that the challenge of HIV/AIDS is scientifically complex and difficult to eradicate. But what we, as young people, should understand is that the issue is still addressable – socially if not medically, with involvement, awareness and action. No part of society can bring these key aspects together better than we can, our collective endeavours and focused efforts can save the lives of millions around the world,  what remains to be done is for us to take the initiative – and fire away.