History of HIV/AIDS

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The history of HIV/AIDS traces the course and origin of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and its progression to the global pandemic of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). The virus is believed to have originated in non-human primates in Central and West Africa.

Origins of HIV/AIDS

HIV, the causative agent of AIDS, is believed to have evolved from similar viruses found in non-human primates in Central and West Africa. The cross-species transmission, or zoonosis, may have occurred through hunting and consumption of bushmeat. The virus developed into several sub-groups, each acquiring the ability to infect humans at different points in time. However, the global pandemic of AIDS was primarily due to one particular strain: HIV-1 subgroup M.

Emergence of HIV-1 Subgroup M

The HIV-1 subgroup M emerged in Léopoldville, now known as Kinshasa, in the Belgian Congo (presently the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in the 1920s. It's postulated that urbanization, railways, changes in sexual behavior, and colonial practices were among the factors contributing to the early spread of this virus strain.

Global Spread

From Kinshasa, HIV-1 subgroup M started its spread to other parts of the globe during the late 20th century. The virus made its way to the Americas, Europe, and other parts of Africa, initially unnoticed by the medical community.

Recognition of the AIDS Epidemic

The first recognized cases of AIDS occurred in the United States in the early 1980s. The disease was initially associated with specific risk groups, such as gay men, intravenous drug users, and hemophiliacs. It took several years for scientists to identify HIV as the cause of AIDS.

Modern Day Response

Since the recognition of AIDS as a global health crisis, there have been significant efforts to prevent HIV transmission and to develop effective treatments. These include the advent of antiretroviral therapy, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and numerous education and prevention programs.

See Also

• HIV/AIDS
• Pandemic
• Antiretroviral therapy

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