HIV SUPPORT > INFORMATION

As of the latest data available in 2023, approximately 38 million people worldwide are living with HIV, illustrating the global scale of this public health issue. In Australia, the estimated number of people living with HIV is around 30,000, with approximately 90% of those individuals being aware of their HIV-positive status. In Newcastle specifically, the prevalence rate remains consistent with national averages, indicating a steady situation in that region.

In contrast, Liberia presents a more concerning picture, with an estimated 1.5% of adults living with HIV. Access to essential treatment continues to be a significant challenge, as approximately 62% of those diagnosed are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), which underscores ongoing barriers, including pervasive stigma and limited healthcare resources. These barriers may be particularly pronounced for immigrants in both regions, impacting their ability to access necessary care. Education and awareness remain critically important in addressing these complex challenges, especially for immigrant communities that are navigating the intricacies of their health and well-being in the context of societal stigma and various cultural barriers they may encounter.

Understanding HIV

What is HIV?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the most severe phase of HIV infection.

Modes of Transmission

HIV is transmitted through:

  • Unprotected sexual contact: The most common mode of transmission. This includes vaginal, anal, and, less commonly, oral sex.

  • Sharing needles: This includes drug use, tattooing, or body piercing with unsterilised equipment.

  • Mother-to-child transmission: HIV can be passed from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

  • Blood transfusions: Though extremely rare in countries with rigorous screening processes, it is still a potential route of transmission.

Symptoms of HIV

Symptoms can vary and may not appear for years. Common early symptoms include:

  • Fever

  • Fatigue

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Sore throat

  • Rash

As the infection progresses, more severe symptoms like night sweats, weight loss, and recurrent infections may occur.

Diagnosing HIV

HIV is diagnosed through blood tests. Two main types of tests are:

  • Antibody tests: Detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to HIV.

  • Antigen/Antibody tests: These tests can detect HIV earlier than antibody tests, as they look for both antibodies and antigens (a part of the virus).

Treatment Options

HIV treatment uses antiretroviral therapy (ART), which helps control the virus. ART involves taking a combination of HIV medicines every day. The main classes of HIV medicines include:

  • NRTIs (Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors): Block reverse transcriptase, an enzyme HIV needs to replicate.

  • NNRTIs (Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors): Also inhibit reverse transcriptase but in a different manner than NRTIs.

  • PIs (Protease Inhibitors): Inhibit another enzyme that HIV needs to reproduce.

  • INSTIs (Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors): Block integrase, an enzyme HIV uses to insert its viral DNA into the host cell's DNA.

  • Entry Inhibitors: Prevent HIV from entering the T cells.

Importance of Adherence

Adherence to ART is crucial in managing HIV. Consistently taking medications can lead to an undetectable viral load, which means the virus cannot be transmitted to sexual partners (referred to as U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable).

Living with HIV

Living with HIV involves regular medical appointments, monitoring one's health, and accessing mental health support if necessary. Education on prevention methods, such as PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis) for at-risk individuals, is also vital.

Resources and Support

Support networks are essential for individuals living with HIV. Many organisations provide counselling, healthcare, and education tailored to the immigrant community. Advocacy and outreach efforts are critical in reducing stigma and promoting awareness regarding treatment and prevention options.

Conclusion

Understanding HIV and available treatments is vital for managing health and wellness for individuals within the immigrant community. As barriers to healthcare access can be significant, resources, education, and support are cornerstone elements in navigating the challenges posed by HIV. Cultural Care Collective remains committed to empowering individuals with knowledge and facilitating access to necessary healthcare resources.