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The main purpose of the study was to examine stigmas associated with condom purchase and use among adolescents of school going age and their effect on prevention of HIV and AIDS among learners in small conservative communities of Zimbabwe. The study adopted the qualitative research design and was informed by the theory of reasoned action, which explains that people rationally weigh the costs and benefits of engaging in action because of beliefs of possible outcomes that prompt them to act in the ways they act. The study found that in small communities where people knew each other, most shops and out lets that were supposed to provide condoms were no longer ordering them because they did want to be seen as promoting promiscuity and that conservative culture among some adults in the community made it very difficult for adolescents of school going age to access and use condoms .The study further established that purchasing and getting condoms was embarrassing to most adolescents because of social stigmas and labels associated with people who were living with HIV and AIDS. It further established that the adults who were shopkeepers made it difficult for youths of school going age to buy condoms from shops because the shop keepers were judged and interrogated adolescents before selling the condoms to them. The practice was embarrassing and scaring to the youngsters. The study recommended that in closed communities where people knew each other shop keepers were supposed to be young man or ladies who would not scare away youngsters who wanted to buy and use condoms. Furthermore, free condoms should not be put in bottles stores only because bottle stores were places for adults and adolescents who were under 18 years of age were reported to their parents if seen buying condoms. Youth friendly education should be intensified to dispel shyness and lack of confidence to approach and buy condoms from outlets especially among female adolescents. Communities must receive more social education to minimize the use of stigmatizing expressions such as arimubhazi (he is going), arikujucer (putting airtime) statements that scared the youth from accessing condoms. The study also recommended that all professionals working in the industry that focuses on HIV and AIDS prevention should dispel fear associated with HIV and AIDS and help communities realize that HIV and AIDS is just like any other chronic disease that can be managed.

Herpes zoster (HZ) results from reactivation of a latent varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection. Clinical manifestations are more common and possibly severe in immunodepressed patients, such as cancer patients. Indeed, HZ can even lead to life-threatening complications. We report the case of an atypical presentation of HZ in an advanced urothelial cancer patient, presenting with long prodromal symptoms and late vesicular eruption. Given the atypical presentation of HZ reactivation among some immunocompromised patients, this case emphasizes the need of clinical suspicion for HZ as differential diagnosis. Furthermore, clinician awareness of prevention of HZ with the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) in immunodepressed individuals is also critical to minimize the risk of disease activation and associated morbidity in such patients.

Diabetes mellitus, indicated by increased levels of blood sugar stemming from inadequate insulin synthesis or poor usage, presents a persistent metabolic challenge. Nutrition stands as a critical pillar in managing diabetes, emphasizing a balanced diet with controlled carbohydrate intake and whole-food emphasis. Yet, implementing nutritional strategies tailored to individual needs remains challenging due to diverse dietary information and evolving science. Though consensus on optimal nutritional therapy lacks uniformity, fundamental dietary principles persist across diabetes types. Studies have shown the effectiveness of nutritional interventions in managing other health conditions, underscoring the need to enhance care for individuals with diabetes. This manuscript delves into the comprehensive landscape of nutritional guidelines for diabetes management, addressing macronutrients\' roles, micronutrient significance, herbal supplements, dietary fiber, glycemic index/load comprehension, and the pivotal role of nutritional counseling. It highlights the importance of tailored dietary plans, focusing on carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, while also elucidating the crucial role of micronutrients such as magnesium, zinc, chromium, and vitamins in diabetes care. Additionally, it examines the potential benefits and caution around herbal supplements in diabetes management. This manuscript provides a holistic exploration of nutritional strategies, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches and comprehensive support systems to optimize diabetes care and overall well-being.

The management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) necessitates a nuanced comprehension of immune responses, with the CD4/CD8 ratio emerging as a pivotal parameter in this regard. This review investigates the clinical implications of CD4/CD8 ratios in HIV, encompassing their role as prognostic markers, treatment monitoring tools, and indicators of immunological reconstitution during antiretroviral therapy. We explore the baseline CD4/CD8 ratio in healthy individuals, scrutinize its prognostic significance in HIV progression, and assess its dynamic changes throughout treatment. Additionally, the article addresses challenges, controversies, and future directions in CD4/CD8 ratio research, offering a comprehensive overview of its potential as a key immunological marker in the ongoing battle against HIV.

This review article provides an in-depth exploration of the current trends and challenges associated with blood transfusion practices in individuals living with HIV. As advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) have significantly improved the life expectancy of HIV-positive individuals, the landscape of blood transfusion strategies and safety considerations has evolved. The review delves into key trends, including personalized transfusion approaches, hemovigilance systems, and innovations in blood screening technologies. Additionally, it addresses challenges such as potential interactions between blood transfusion and antiretroviral medications, the impact on viral load dynamics, and emerging infectious risks. By synthesizing existing literature, this review aims to provide insights that guide healthcare professionals in optimizing blood transfusion practices for individuals with HIV while addressing the unique challenges posed by this patient population.

The immune response against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a complex interplay between various components of the immune system, with CD8+ T-cells occupying a central role in viral control. This review critically examines the functionality of CD8+ T-cells in HIV defense, highlighting their importance in controlling viral replication, the evasion strategies employed by HIV, and the challenges encountered in harnessing CD8-mediated immunity for therapeutic purposes. We discuss the heterogeneity of CD8+ T-cell responses, the mechanisms of viral escape, and the phenomenon of CD8+ T-cell exhaustion. Additionally, recent advancements and controversies in the field are addressed, along with future perspectives on enhancing CD8-mediated immunity as a therapeutic strategy against HIV. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding CD8+ T-cell functionality in HIV defense, paving the way for further research and therapeutic developments in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has revolutionized the management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, significantly reducing morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. However, emerging evidence suggests that ART may be associated with alterations in platelet function and homeostasis, leading to platelet aberrations such as thrombocytopenia and platelet hyperactivity in HIV patients. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the relationship between ART and platelet aberrations in HIV-infected individuals. We discuss the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management strategies of platelet abnormalities associated with ART, including immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS)-related thrombocytopenia and ART-induced coagulation disorders. Furthermore, we explore potential mechanisms underlying ART-induced platelet aberrations, including direct drug toxicity, immune-mediated mechanisms, and viral factors. Understanding the impact of ART on platelet function and homeostasis is essential for optimizing the management of HIV-infected individuals and minimizing the risk of associated complications.

Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) plays a crucial role in ensuring a HIV-free start for newborns born to HIV-positive mothers. This review highlights the significance of EID in pediatric HIV care, emphasizing its role in timely identification of HIV infection, prevention of morbidity and mortality, facilitation of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programs, reduction of HIV transmission, and promotion of long-term health outcomes. Despite its importance, EID faces challenges such as limited access to testing services and logistical constraints. Addressing these challenges requires strengthening health systems and leveraging innovative approaches to expand access to EID services. Investing in EID programs is essential for achieving global HIV elimination targets and advancing towards an AIDS-free generation.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has revolutionized the management of HIV infection, significantly reducing morbidity and mortality in individuals living with the virus. However, the influence of ART on maternal eosinophil levels during pregnancy remains a topic of interest and debate. This review explores the current understanding of how ART affects eosinophil levels in pregnant women living with HIV, considering both the potential mechanisms underlying these changes and their clinical implications. Keywords such as HIV, antiretroviral therapy, pregnancy, eosinophils, immune response, and maternal health are utilized to delve into relevant literature and provide insights into this complex interaction. Understanding the impact of ART on maternal eosinophil levels can contribute to optimizing the management of HIV during pregnancy, ensuring maternal health, and promoting favorable pregnancy outcomes.

Hematologic complications represent a significant burden in individuals living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, with anemia being one of the most prevalent and clinically relevant manifestations. Central to the pathophysiology of HIV-associated anemia is the dysregulation of erythropoietin (EPO), the principal hormone governing red blood cell production. This review examines the intricate interplay between HIV infection and erythropoiesis, focusing on the mechanisms underlying EPO dynamics. Chronic inflammation, cytokine dysregulation, and direct viral effects disrupt the delicate balance of EPO regulation, leading to impaired erythropoiesis and anemia. Moreover, antiretroviral therapy (ART) may exert additional effects on EPO synthesis and hematopoiesis. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for devising effective therapeutic strategies tailored to individual patient needs. Future research endeavors should aim to unravel the complex pathways governing EPO regulation in HIV infection, paving the way for personalized management approaches aimed at alleviating anemia burden and improving patient outcomes.