Genetics play an important role in the way we respond to pathogens like the human immunodeficiency virus. A new study among people of African descent suggests that certain genetic variants supress the viral load of people who have a chronic HIV infection. These variants also reduce the risk of viral transmission.
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WHO Emphasises the Transformative Power of ART Therapy for HIV-Positive Individuals
The development of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is one of the most defining discoveries in the fight against HIV. New data and WHO recommendations suggest that the widespread ART administration among HIV-positive individuals is the best option for improving individual health outcomes and eliminating the risk of transmission.
Continue readingSingapore Sees Lowest HIV Infection Rates in Over 25 Years
The latest numbers pertaining to HIV infections in Singapore are consistent with international findings. For several years in a row, the rate of new infections has been declining. In fact, the 2022 figure has been the lowest one since 1998.
Continue readingEverything You Need to Know About Blue Waffle Disease: A Real STD or a Myth?
Blue waffle disease was first mentioned online in 2010 and ever since, conversations about the new STD have been ongoing. Many people are wondering whether this one is a real condition or just an online hoax. Reviewing the available information and consulting medical professionals reveals the answer to this question.
Continue readingNanoparticle HIV Vaccine Delivers Promising Results in Clinical Trial
Scientists have long been working on the development of an effective and broad HIV vaccine. A new nanoparticle HIV vaccine candidate seems to be overcoming challenges that previous developments couldn’t address. The candidate helps for the development of antibodies that can neutralise about 90 per cent of HIV strains.
Continue readingResearchers Take on the Biggest Challenge to Finding a Cure for HIV
While modern antiretroviral therapies can suppress the human immunodeficiency virus to nearly undetectable levels, there is still no cure for the infection. Cornell researchers have currently received a grant that will allow examination of important cellular mechanisms standing in the way of eliminating the infection. This new research increases the hope of finding a cure.
Continue readingHigh Risk Groups Benefit from Reliable HIV Protection, Annual Study Shows
It’s a well-known fact that HIV affects men disproportionately. The latest annual statistics from the US suggest that high risk groups like men who have sex with men are benefiting from reliable protection in the form of HIV PrEP. PrEP has contributed to a significant slowdown in the number of new infections and the trend has been ongoing ever since 2017.
Continue readingGonorrhoea Resistant to Several Classes of Antibiotics Identified for the First Time
Research from the US suggests that a new “super” strain of gonorrhoea has already started infecting individual. This strain is resistant to nearly every class of antibiotic used for the treatment of the STD. the situation is considered a public health crisis that necessitates the development of a brand new therapeutic approach.
Continue readingThe Main Reason Why HIV is a Lifelong Condition
The scientific community still hasn’t discovered a 100 per cent effective cure for HIV and researchers may know the reason why. A new Johns Hopkins University study suggests that the virus uses complex cellular processes to maintain a solid DNA reservoir. This is even true among individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy.
Continue readingWhat to Do if You Find Out Your Partner Has Given You an STD
An STD should be the last thing on your mind when in a relationship but it’s possible to get an infection from your partner (even when you’re in a committed monogamous relationship). Getting the news about a sexually transmitted disease is never easy but you should get yourself together and complete a couple of important steps.
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