[procaare] Not Everyone Who Becomes Infected Originates From A 'High Risk' Group

["ProCAARE" <procaare@healthnet.org>]

Not Everyone, Who Becomes Infected With HIV, Originates From A 
'High Risk' Group, Canada
Medical News Today: 18 Jan 2008
*****************************************************************

The common usage of the words 'high risk', in reference to people, 
who are most likely to become infected with HIV, has led many to 
believe misguidedly that they are not at risk. Unfortunately, this 
belief couldn't be further from the truth.

Everyone is at risk of infection and worldwide infection rates show 
that HIV is infecting men, women and children of all ages. Millions 
of people, who were not considered to be 'high risk', are now 
infected. The outdated and inaccurate messages that continue to be 
broadcast contribute globally to a false sense of security.

People do not think that they are at risk. The pervasive message in 
the media states that HIV infections are highest among the 'high 
risk' groups of drug users and gay people. There is little reported 
about the steady, worldwide climb of the disease among those, who 
are not considered to be at 'high risk'.

Safe sex messages and condom promotion are effective strategies. 
However, everyone needs to be informed of the mounting evidence, 
which shows that HIV is thriving outside of 'high risk' groups.

Both heterosexuals and homosexuals are being infected. In addition, 
individuals, who are not promiscuous and not drug addicts, become 
infected. One encounter with someone, who is HIV positive, can lead 
to infection. A person with just one sexual experience can become 
infected.

It is more and more likely that those, who are not infected, will 
encounter individuals who are infected. UNAIDS and WHO estimate 
that approximately 33.2 million people are infected with HIV around 
the world. Unknown numbers of individuals are unaware that they are 
infected with HIV and unaware that they may infect others.

We are failing to inform people properly. Sending the message that 
HIV infections occur in 'high risk' groups leaves many to believe 
that they have no concerns for safeguarding their own health. 
Anyone, who engages in sexual activity without a condom, risks 
infection.

Educating the public about the real risks is a better HIV 
prevention strategy.

Written by - Bradford McIntyre
HIV+ since 1984
Vancouver, Canada
http://www.PositivelyPositive.ca

Online: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/94394.php