Question 1: Define HIV and explain its role in causing AIDS.

Answer: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells). If untreated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), where the immune system becomes severely weakened.

Question 2: Describe the primary method by which HIV is transmitted from person to person.

Answer: HIV is primarily transmitted through exchange of body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, often via unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Question 3: What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?

Answer: HIV is the virus that causes infection, while AIDS is the condition that develops when HIV has severely weakened the immune system, leading to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Question 4: Identify two common methods used to prevent the transmission of HIV.

Answer: Using condoms during sexual activity and avoiding sharing needles are two common methods to prevent HIV transmission.

Question 5: Explain why early detection of HIV is important.

Answer: Early detection allows for timely treatment with antiretroviral drugs, which can slow the progression of the disease, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

Question 6: Describe the main components of the HIV virus.

Answer: The main components of HIV include the viral RNA, a protein capsid, an outer lipid envelope with glycoproteins, and enzymes such as reverse transcriptase.

Question 7: List two common symptoms experienced by individuals shortly after HIV infection.

Answer: Fever and sore throat are common symptoms experienced during the initial stage of HIV infection.

Question 8: What is the purpose of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in managing HIV?

Answer: ART helps to reduce the amount of HIV in the body, maintain immune system function, and prevent the progression to AIDS.

Question 9: Describe one social or ethical issue related to HIV/AIDS.

Answer: Stigma and discrimination against individuals with HIV/AIDS can hinder testing, treatment, and support efforts.

Question 10: Summarize the importance of education and awareness in preventing HIV/AIDS.

Answer: Education and awareness help inform people about how HIV is transmitted, how to protect themselves, and reduce stigma, thereby decreasing the spread of the virus.

Question 1: A study shows that in a certain community, 1% of the population is infected with HIV. If the community has 50,000 people, estimate how many individuals are likely to be HIV positive.

Answer: 50000 * 0.01 = 500; approximately 500 individuals.

Question 2: Suppose a new medication reduces the viral load in HIV-positive patients by 90%. Explain how this benefits the patient and the community.

Answer: Reducing the viral load decreases the likelihood of transmitting HIV to others, helps improve the patient's immune system, and slows disease progression, thereby benefiting both the individual and public health.

Question 3: Identify a major safety precaution that should be followed when handling materials potentially contaminated with HIV in a laboratory setting.

Answer: Wearing gloves and using proper sterilization techniques to avoid exposure and contamination.

Question 4: In a survey, 70% of HIV-positive individuals are on treatment, but only 50% have an undetectable viral load. What does this imply about treatment effectiveness and public health efforts?

Answer: It indicates that while most individuals are receiving treatment, only half achieve an undetectable viral load, highlighting the need for improved adherence, access to healthcare, and monitoring to effectively control the spread of HIV.