Without a cure, early detection key to HIV management
THE Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains incurable, but with proper and early detection, individuals can live normal, healthy lives through lifelong treatment, an official from the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) said.
Dr. Donny Caramat of R1MC explained that individuals diagnosed with HIV are provided with anti-retroviral therapy (ART) — a treatment that suppresses the virus and prevents it from multiplying in the body.
He explained that symptoms of HIV are often nonspecific, and many individuals may not even realize they are infected.
“Some may only experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, or diarrhea that go away on their own,” he said. “Without complications and with consistent treatment, people living with HIV can enjoy a normal lifespan. But if left untreated and the infection advances, it progresses to AIDS, where the immune system is severely damaged.”
HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breastmilk.
Modes of transmission include unprotected sex, blood transfusion, sharing contaminated needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth.
Caramat urged individuals, especially those with multiple sexual partners, to undergo regular HIV screening, which is free through PhilHealth.
R1MC is the only accredited HIV Treatment Hub in Region 1.
Dr. Caramat also noted that the majority of HIV cases in the region now involve young people aged 17 to 24, with social media playing a role in influencing risky behaviors. (Ahikam Pasion)
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