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What is HIV?

August 10, 2006

Human Immunodeficiency Virus

HIV is a virus that slowly destroys the immune system. This virus infects certain white blood cells. These blood cells are called T4 helper cells. T4 helper cells help regulate the immune system. When people get the HIV virus these cells are destroyed. This stops the body from fighting off infections and some types of cancers like lymphoma. The diseases that your body can’t fight off cause health complications, that often result in death.

Who it affects...

HIV can affect anyone. But it is disproportionately prevalent within the African–American community. One reason is the common practice of participating in unprotected, homosexual or heterosexual sex. However, It is not only an issue in the urban communities; it is an issue in rural areas and the suburbs, as well.

You are at risk if you...

• Are a man or woman, and have sex with another man or woman.
• Have many sex partners.
• Have been with someone with many sex partners.
• Have sex with a prostitute.
• Share intravenous needles when using illegal drugs.
• Have unprotected sex.

The one sure way to protect your self from getting HIV is not to have sex. However, if you decide to have sex, you should use some type of protection (see safer sex). However, today in this time and age, no form of safer sex is 100%. So if you decide to have sex, ask yourself, is it really safe?

Posted at 10:10 AM by Latasha in the HIV & AIDS category/ies.

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