World AIDS Day: From diagnosis to combating stigma, expert answers all FAQs

New Delhi: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains one of the world’s most challenging public health concerns. Despite significant advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART), which can suppress viral loads to undetectable levels and prevent transmission, a definitive cure for HIV has remained elusive. However, recent years have witnessed remarkable progress in HIV cure research, though numerous challenges persist.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant at Sharda Hospital, answered all FAQs about HIV/AIDS.
HIV Cure Research: Challenges and Progress
Challenges in HIV Cure Research

Latent Viral Reservoirs: HIV integrates into the DNA of host cells, particularly memory CD4+ T cells. These reservoirs remain dormant and evade detection, making eradication difficult. Viral rebound occurs quickly if ART is interrupted.
Genetic Diversity of HIV: The virus mutates rapidly, producing numerous variants. This genetic variability allows it to evade immune responses and complicates cure strategies.
Safety, Scalability, and Cost: Cure strategies must be safe and effective for widespread use. Accessibility in low- and middle-income countries is critical to ensure global health equity.

Progress in HIV Cure Research

Shock and Kill Strategies: Aim to reactivate latent HIV to make it detectable and targetable.
Risk: Potentially harmful immune responses or damage to host cells.
Block and Lock Strategies: Focus on silencing HIV permanently to prevent replication. Early results are promising, but long-term efficacy is under investigation.
Gene Editing: CRISPR-Cas9 technology is being used to remove HIV from infected cells or make cells resistant. Still in the experimental stages, but with potential for groundbreaking applications.
Bone Marrow Transplants: Successful cases like the Berlin and London patients show potential for a functional cure. Not feasible for large-scale use due to high risks and complexity.
Therapeutic Vaccines: Aim to boost the immune system’s ability to control HIV without continuous ART. Currently undergoing trials with promising initial outcomes.

Combating Stigma Around HIV/AIDS in Schools and Workplaces
Impact of Stigma

In Schools: Students living with or affected by HIV often face bullying and exclusion. This can result in poor academic performance and mental health challenges.
In Workplaces: Individuals with HIV may encounter discrimination, harassment, or forced disclosure of their status. Career progression and job security are often compromised.

Strategies to Combat Stigma

Education and Awareness Campaigns: Integrate comprehensive sex education in schools, including information on HIV/AIDS. Promote empathy and understanding among students and staff.
Workplace Policies and Training: Implement anti-discrimination policies to protect employees with HIV. Conduct sensitivity training to foster a supportive work environment.
Peer Support and Counseling: Establish safe spaces for individuals to share experiences and seek support. Peer groups can help reduce isolation and build resilience.
Leadership and Role Models: Teachers, managers, and community leaders should model acceptance and inclusivity.
Legal Protections: Enforce laws to prevent discrimination and hold violators accountable. Ensure individuals with HIV feel safe and empowered to live openly.

Advancing HIV cure research alongside effective treatment options and combating stigma are crucial steps toward ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. With continued scientific innovation and inclusive societal reforms, a future free of HIV-related barriers is within reach.