There are numerous questions and lots of uncertain answers, myths, rumors surrounding HIV and AIDS. The information disseminated by the media comes with individuals' fear, temporary perplexity and strange as it may seem, with their further ignorance.
So, let's focus your attention on some true facts about HIV and AIDS that every teen should ascertain and take into account.
Briefly saying teens should know that:
- HIV doesn't discriminate
Since this infection has appeared people have created stereotypes to classify the individuals infected with HIV. Thus drug users, prostitutes and gay males comes on top in the list of those infected with HIV and AIDS. In fact HIV has no favorites. Both men and women, teens and old adults, lesbians and homosexuals, Muslims and Catholics, the homeless and presidents may be the victims of this terrifying virus. The true is that HIV affects anyone who doesn't care himself/herself and takes no proper precautions. It was estimated that since this epidemic has began, over 50.000 teens were infected with HIV that gradually developed and progressed to AIDS. This can lead to individuals' death before the age of twenty. The data are awful and terrific, but this is the reality and people should accept and ponder over overcoming it.
- Oral sex is not safe when it comes to HIV
Most people know that HIV can be easily spread from one contact to another. However, they often underestimate the risk involved in some behaviors. For instance, oral sex is often associated with the "safer sex".
According to certain data in high schools oral sex is quite a popular activity among teenagers. Most young people opt for it as in their opinion it carries no pregnancy and/or disease risk. However, this is further from the truth. One's bodily fluids (semen, vaginal discharge) are endowed with high concentrations of HIV that easily enter the blood stream via the mucous membranes of the mouth.
- An infected person doesn't either reveal the truth or even know about her/his condition.
Most people infected with HIV hide the truth and can't simply admit the fact they are infected. They do not disclosure their status as they aren't willing to face the fear of discrimination and prejudice. Most individuals infected with HIV feel embarrassed, guilty and are afraid of lack of affection, love and people's respect.
- HIV is worse than pregnancy
Even though media has provided and still offers people considerable information, resilient facts and data about HIV and AIDS, most teenagers still consider that pregnancy is the biggest risk of any unprotected sex. Thus young people eagerly resort to birth control methods (pills, patches, etc), oral sex or withdrawal technique prior to ejaculation (coitus interruptus). By these means they do reduce the risk of getting pregnant. The problem, however, is deeper and more complicated.
The rate of STDs among teenagers significantly increases. Certain STDs have no cure and last for a lifetime like HIV, Herpes and Syphilis. Sexually transmitted infections and diseases are the most “real” reasons why all sexually active persons are indicated and truly recommended to use latex condoms. These common sheathes are meant to minimize the risk of STDs (excluding pubic lice or scabs), HIV and protect against undesired pregnancy, as well. - HIV kills! It's a virus with no cure
Probably you have heard about the effectiveness of HIV medications that are capable to prolong an infected person's life. Although these medications fight the virus, they don't represent a cure for HIV. People still die from AIDS. Also the very medications are difficult to take and cause many side effects. For instance, they may lead to:
- fat accumulations in the stomach and neck; - diarrhea; - rashes; - extreme fatigue; - vomiting, etc.
Moreover, these medicines should be taken not once-a-day but many times a day. This fact leads to serious diseases of liver and kidneys. Furthermore, the medicines meant to prolong the life of a person infected with HIV cost a lot - thousands of dollars annually.
Misconceptions and ignorance can be quite dangerous, especially when it comes to HIV and AIDS. That's why you should be acquainted of all the facts about this mortal virus and insist on usingcondoms every time you engage in intercourse. Remember! HIV and AIDS are capable to commit a human being's crime. Prevent them to lead a healthy and happy life! Good luck!
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