Name: LESTER E.
LAPICEROS Bsed Science 3A
Submitted to: BETH CAHINGCOY(Part time lecturer)
“The Societal Impact of HIV/AIDS: Health, Stigma, and Advocacy”
According to National Library of Medicine, n.d., states that Sexually transmitted Infections
(STI’s) are infections that are primarily spread through sexual contact and are caused by
bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and they can affect various parts of the body, including the
genitals, mouth, throat, and rectum. One of the type of STI’s nowadays are very alarming
which is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which lead to having Acquired
Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). This virus is a virus that attacks the body’s immune
system. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) occurs at the most advanced stage of
infection (World Health Organization WHO,2024). “HIV remains a major global public health
issue, having claimed an estimated 42.3 million lives to date and transmission is ongoing in all
countries globally”, they added. Another problem does not only complicate its affect on health
but also the societal stigma faced by people having HIV. The question are still lying, how does
HIV was discovered? How can be it transmitted from one another and be prevented? And
lastly how can we break the stigma about this disease?these are just some of the questions
that will be unfold.
From Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research,CANFAR (2023) states that Scientists
believe that HIV originally came from a virus particular to chimpanzees in West Africa during
the 1930s, and originally transmitted to humans through the transfer of blood through hunting.
Over the decades, the virus spread through Africa, and to other parts of the world. In 1981
United States of America (US) the disease is initially called Gay-Related Immune Deficiency
(GRID) because it is thought it only affects gay men because of rare case of pneumonia and
cancer that prevalent in young gay men until in 1982 it was renamed to Human
Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) after reports cases from Canada through blood transfusion.
Later on the next years, The toll on healthcare systems has been substantial, as governments
and organizations have had to allocate significant resources to HIV prevention, testing, and
treatment. This redirection of resources has sometimes constrained the capacity to address
other pressing health issues. Moreover, HIV/AIDS has reshaped global health policies, driving
advancements in treatment through antiretroviral therapy, which has transformed the disease
from a death sentence to a manageable chronic condition. Despite these advancements,
accessibility and affordability remain challenging for low-income populations, perpetuating
cycles of poverty and illness in many communities. The disease has also spurred extensive
research, which has increased understanding of viruses and immune responses, benefiting
broader fields in medicine and epidemiology.
Rueda Street, Calbayog City
063 055 5339857
Samar, Philippines 6710
[email protected] www.nwssu.edu.ph
Beyond public health, HIV/AIDS has deeply influenced societal attitudes, often
reinforcing and intensifying stigma against affected populations, including LGBTQ+
individuals, drug users, and marginalized groups. This stigma not only hinders prevention and
treatment efforts but also impacts the mental and emotional well-being of those living with
HIV/AIDS. It can lead to social isolation, discrimination in the workplace, and limited access to
housing and education, often pushing individuals further into poverty and vulnerability. The
epidemic has also given rise to a global advocacy movement that works to promote
awareness, improve healthcare access, and protect the rights of those affected. This
movement has driven significant policy changes and challenged societal norms, fostering a
more inclusive approach to healthcare and human rights. However, the road to full social
acceptance and understanding remains long, as misinformation and cultural biases persist.
Consequently, HIV/AIDS remains a lens through which society grapples with issues of health
equity, social justice, and compassion, reflecting the need for ongoing education, support, and
reform.
References:
National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Sexually transmitted infections. STD | Venereal Disease |
MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/sexuallytransmittedinfections.html
World Health Organization: WHO & World Health Organization: WHO. (2024, July 22). HIV
and AIDS. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids
Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR). (2023, September 5). History of
HIV/AIDS | CANFAR. CANFAR. https://canfar.com/awareness/about-hiv-aids/history-of-hiv-
aids/
Rueda Street, Calbayog City
063 055 5339857
Samar, Philippines 6710
[email protected] www.nwssu.edu.ph
Rueda Street, Calbayog City
063 055 5339857
Samar, Philippines 6710
[email protected] www.nwssu.edu.ph
