HIV: Detailing the Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Like a powerful army it has conquered more than half of the world. Its reckless and swift battalion, although microscopic in size, claims nearly three million lives each year. Although by title it is known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), it is known to all as one of the human body's deadliest enemy. At its core, HIV is a disease that weakens the body at the heart of its defense: its immune system, thereby making …

…policies have been implemented around the world to help minimize the spread of the disease. Like many health problems, HIV is the result of various factors operating at multiple levels, and therefore personal behavior, relationships with family and friends, community norms, the medical system, and local laws can all affect HIV infection rates. In order for HIV prevention to work, programs are needed that address all levels of risk: individual, familial, community, medical and legal.