The global challenge of HIV/AIDS remains one of the most pressing public health issues today. According to the latest data from UNAIDS, around 38.4 million people worldwide are living with HIV/AIDS, underlining the need for not only medical intervention but also comprehensive awareness, education, and social change. Despite the significant strides made in treatment and prevention, the confusion surrounding the relationship between HIV and AIDS still persists.

Young people have become influential advocates in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Research from UNICEF shows that youth-led initiatives can lower HIV transmission rates by as much as 45% in targeted communities. These young activists utilize digital platforms and peer-to-peer education to dispel myths, promote safe practices, and foster supportive environments for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Dr Gowri Kulkarni, an expert in Internal Medicine, explains that while the terms HIV and AIDS are often used interchangeably, they are distinctly different. "HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, whereas AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a condition that occurs when HIV severely damages the immune system," she clarifies. To understand the implications of these differences, it's important to explore the fundamental distinctions between the two.

1. HIV is a Virus; AIDS is a Syndrome

HIV is the virus responsible for attacking the body’s immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which are crucial for the body’s defense against infections. As HIV progresses, it destroys these cells, weakening the immune system over time. If left untreated, this continuous damage can lead to AIDS.

AIDS, on the other hand, is a syndrome, not a virus. Dr Kulkarni further elaborates that AIDS is a collection of symptoms and illnesses that emerge when the immune system is severely compromised due to prolonged HIV infection. It represents the most advanced stage of HIV, and is characterized by very low CD4 counts or the onset of opportunistic infections like tuberculosis, pneumonia, or certain cancers.

2. Not Everyone with HIV Develops AIDS

A key distinction to remember is that not everyone with HIV will progress to AIDS. Thanks to advancements in medicine, particularly antiretroviral therapy (ART), individuals living with HIV can manage the virus and maintain a healthy immune system for many years, or even decades, without ever developing AIDS. ART works by suppressing the virus to undetectable levels, effectively preventing the damage HIV would otherwise cause to the immune system.

Without treatment, however, HIV progresses through three stages:

- Acute HIV Infection: This stage occurs shortly after transmission and may include symptoms like fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.

- Chronic HIV Infection: Often asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic, the virus continues to damage the immune system but at a slower rate.

- AIDS: This is the final stage, marked by severe immune damage and the presence of infections that take advantage of the compromised immune defenses.

3. HIV is Transmissible; AIDS is Not

Another key distinction between HIV and AIDS is the way in which they are transmitted. HIV is highly contagious and can be transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. It is primarily spread through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

AIDS, however, is not transmissible. It is not a disease that can be passed from one person to another. Rather, AIDS is the result of untreated, advanced HIV infection and is a direct consequence of the virus’s damage to the immune system.

4. Diagnosis Methods Differ

HIV and AIDS are diagnosed through different methods. HIV is diagnosed through blood tests or oral swabs that detect the presence of the virus or antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the virus. Early detection of HIV is crucial, as it allows for timely intervention and treatment, which can prevent the virus from progressing to AIDS.

AIDS, on the other hand, is diagnosed using more specific criteria. Dr Kulkarni notes that the diagnosis of AIDS is made when the individual’s CD4 cell count falls below 200 cells/mm³, or when opportunistic infections or certain cancers (such as Kaposi's sarcoma or lymphoma) are detected. Diagnosing AIDS involves a more thorough assessment of the individual’s immune function and overall health, as opposed to just the detection of HIV.

5. Treatment Goals Are Different

The treatment goals for HIV and AIDS differ significantly, although both involve antiretroviral therapy (ART). For HIV, the primary treatment goal is to suppress the virus to undetectable levels, thus maintaining a strong immune system and preventing further transmission of the virus. People living with HIV can often live long, healthy lives if they adhere to ART.

For individuals diagnosed with AIDS, the treatment plan becomes more complex. While ART remains an essential part of managing the virus, treatment for AIDS also focuses on addressing the opportunistic infections and secondary health complications associated with severe immune suppression. The goal of treatment for AIDS is not only to manage the HIV virus but also to improve the quality of life and extend survival by treating these secondary health issues.

Role of Community Engagement in Combatting HIV/AIDS

While the medical community has made great strides in managing HIV, the battle to curb its transmission is also a social and cultural issue. Dr Daman Ahuja, a public health expert, highlights that HIV/AIDS awareness and education are vital to reducing transmission rates and supporting those affected by the virus. "Young people, especially, have become key advocates in the fight against HIV/AIDS," says Dr Ahuja. "Research from UNICEF shows that youth-led initiatives can lower HIV transmission rates by as much as 45% in targeted communities."

Additionally, grassroots activism plays a significant role in raising awareness and addressing stigma. As the World Health Organization reports, community-based interventions have been proven to increase HIV testing rates and improve treatment adherence, which are crucial in the fight against the pandemic.

The ultimate goal of organizations like UNAIDS is to eliminate the HIV/AIDS pandemic by 2030. Achieving this requires global collaboration, from medical treatment advancements to public health strategies, education, and advocacy. Dr Kulkarni’s insight underscores the importance of early detection, treatment adherence, and community support in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Dr Gowri Kulkarni is Head of Medical Operations at MediBuddy and Dr Daman Ahuja, a public health expert and has been associated with Red Ribbon Express Project of NACO between 2007-12.

A cancer diagnosis in your 20s or 30s could be a life-altering event as it brings several difficult questions that you may not be prepared to answer.

Depending on the cancer type and treatment, the possibility of you having children in the future could get significantly affected. Chemotherapy, radiation and certain surgeries can have a profound impact on reproductive health in both men and women. However, infertility is not an inevitable outcome of cancer treatment.

On National Cancer Awareness Day, experts help us understand the impact of cancer treatment on fertility by discussing options that can help young patients make informed decisions.

Dr Jeyhan B. Dhabhar, Medical Oncologist at Head Neck Cancer Institute India (HNCII), told HealthandMe that the effect of cancer treatment on fertility depends on several factors, including the type of chemotherapy, the area exposed to radiation, the patient's age and the treatment regimen.

“Cancer treatment can affect fertility in both men and women, but it is important to understand that not every cancer treatment causes infertility,” he said.

Dr Vijayalaxmi Koppad, Fertility Consultant at Birthright Fertility, HRBR, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, told HealthandMe that treatments designed to target rapidly dividing cancer cells can also damage reproductive cells. She said, "Chemotherapy may affect ovarian egg reserves or sperm production, while radiation and surgery can also affect reproductive organs."

How Does Cancer Treatment Affect Fertility In Men And Women?

Also read: FDA Probes Cancer Risk After Tumours Reported In Children Given Novartis's SMA Gene Therapy

The impact of cancer treatment can differ between men and women. In men, certain chemotherapy drugs may reduce sperm count or disrupt sperm production. Although sperm production can recover after treatment, the extent and timing of recovery vary.

In women, treatment may damage the remaining egg supply or affect ovarian function and menstrual cycles. Dr Dhabhar said, "In women, some treatments may affect the number of healthy eggs remaining in the ovaries or cause changes in menstrual cycles. Age is an important factor, as women naturally have a declining egg reserve as they grow older."

Dr Koppad explains that the biological differences between men and women influence their chances of recovery. “Men continuously produce new sperm throughout life, so their reproductive system might recover over time, whereas women are born with a fixed supply of eggs that cannot be replaced once damaged by treatment, making age a critical factor for women,” she said.

However, fertility outcomes cannot be predicted by age or gender alone. As Dr Dhabhar points out, two patients of the same age may have very different outcomes depending on the treatment they receive.

Can Cancer Treatment Cause Permanent Infertility?

Also read: NCCN Issues First-Ever Guidelines For Cancer Caregivers

Dr Dhabhar said that some cancer treatments can cause permanent infertility but this does not happen to everyone. The risk may be higher with certain chemotherapy drugs, particularly alkylating agents, high-dose chemotherapy and radiation directed at reproductive organs.

Surgeries that involve removing the ovaries or testes can also result in permanent loss of fertility. However, advances in fertility preservation have given young patients options to consider before starting cancer treatment.

Dr Koppad said, “High-dose chemotherapy, pelvic radiation, or surgeries that remove reproductive organs (like the ovaries or testes) can lead to permanent loss of fertility. However, modern fertility preservation techniques—such as freezing eggs, embryos, or sperm before treatment begins—give young patients a crucial safety net for the future.”

Men may be able to freeze sperm, while women can consider egg or embryo freezing. These procedures can preserve fertility post after treatment.

Dr Dhabhar said, "My advice to young patients is simple: if having children in the future is important to you, speak to your oncologist before starting treatment. Even a short discussion can make a meaningful difference to your future choices."

Can Fertility Return Naturally After Cancer Treatment?

Also read: After Olympian Ciara Mageean’s Death At 34, Irish Health Authorities Are Being Urged To Lower Screening Age For Bowel Cancer

Fertility can return naturally after cancer treatment and some survivors go on to have children without fertility assistance. In men, sperm production may gradually recover after chemotherapy. In women, menstrual cycles and ovarian function may return, depending on their age and the treatment.

However, the return of regular periods does not always mean that ovarian function or fertility has fully recovered. Similarly, sperm production may take time to return, and recovery is not guaranteed.

“Many cancer survivors go on to have healthy children,” says Dr Dhabhar. He recommends that patients planning a family after treatment undergo a fertility assessment and discuss the appropriate time to try for pregnancy with their oncologist.

Fertility Should Be Discussed Before Cancer Treatment

Ideally fertility should be discussed between oncologists and young patients before treatment begins. This gives patients an opportunity to understand the risks and consider preservation options.

Dr Koppad says, “While global medical guidelines urge doctors to discuss fertility before starting any therapy, it still gets overlooked during the initial rush to fight the disease.”

She encourages patients and their families to raise the subject early. One question they can ask their oncologist is: “How will this treatment affect my future family plans?”

Dr Dhabhar also emphasises that fertility planning should be addressed alongside cancer care, rather than becoming a reason to avoid or postpone essential treatment.

His message to young patients is clear. He said, “A cancer diagnosis does not mean giving up the dream of having a family. With the right guidance and timely planning, many patients can successfully balance cancer treatment with their future fertility goals.”

Delhi was ranked the world's most polluted major city on Saturday morning, November 7, 2026, by Swiss air-quality technology company, IQAir. The national capital has been grappling with worsening pollution ahead of Diwali.

IQAir placed Delhi at the top of its live global ranking at 10:35 am, with an air quality index (AQI) reading of 581. The AQI was more than twice that of Lahore in Pakistan, which recorded an AQI of 285 at the time.

However, India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported different readings as it uses different scales than IQAir to calculate AQI. According to CPCB, Delhi's AQI was 363 at 10 am on Saturday, placing the city under 'very poor' category. According to reports, Friday's air quality was the worst recorded before Diwali in eight years.

Why Delhi Grapples With Severe Air Pollution Every Year?

Also read: High AQI and High Blood Pressure: Is There a Connection People Often Overlook?

Several north Indian states including Delhi choke due to severe air pollution ahead of and during winter due to several reasons. Cold, dense air and slow winds can trap pollutants close to the ground, fueling rising AQI. Vehicular emissions, stubble burning, construction dust, and firecracker smoke from Diwali celebrations only compound to the hazardous environmental crisis.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) introduced restrictions as pollution levels have increased drastically. Schools in and around Delhi have been directed to switch to online classes, while residents have been encouraged to work from home. Authorities have also asked local governments to consider allowing half of public- and private-sector employees to work remotely.

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa warned that weather conditions could worsen further. “From tomorrow, the weather is going to become worse, winds will completely stop, which will worsen the AQI,” he said, according to Reuters.

Experts Recommend Precautions Amid Severe Air Pollution In Delhi

Also read: Delhi Air Pollution: Should You Move Your Morning Walk And Jog Indoors As AQI Nears 400?

PM2.5, fine particulate matter, is a major health concern because its tiny particles can travel deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.

Exposure to these pollutants can aggravate asthma and other respiratory conditions like COPD and bronchitis, irritate the eyes and airways, and increase the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory disease.

In an X post, Dr. Sudhir Kr. Gupta (MD, Resp. MED), Senior Consultant Chest Physician & Bronchoscopist at Kailash Healthcare said, “Those who struggle with such respiratory problems should strictly avoid going out, especially when pollution levels are severe.”

The effects are not limited to people with existing health conditions. Children, older adults, pregnant women and people with heart or lung diseases may be particularly vulnerable.

As pollution levels remain high, health experts advise limiting strenuous outdoor activity, especially during periods of severe air quality. People who need to go outside can use a well-fitting N95 or N99 respirator.

Dr Viny Kantroo, Senior Consultant, Respiratory Medicine, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, told HealthandMe, “A well-fitted N95 mask filters at least 95% of airborne particles under standard testing conditions and can reduce exposure to PM2.5. Its protection depends on how closely it fits the face. There is no fixed number of hours for which it can be worn. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and replace it if it becomes wet, dirty, damaged or difficult to breathe through. A disposable N95 should not be washed.”

Also read: With Delhi AQI Nearing 400, Pollution & Flu Loom Ahead Of Diwali: What Happens When Both Hit Your Lungs?

Many opt for cloth masks while stepping. The doctor explained if cloth masks are as effective as N95 or N99 masks to protect yourself from toxic air.

She added, “Cloth masks offer limited and inconsistent protection against PM2.5. Their effectiveness depends on the fabric, number of layers and fit, but they generally do not filter fine particles as reliably as an N95. A well-fitted N95 or equivalent respirator is a better choice when stepping outdoors during severe pollution. Even then, reducing time outdoors remains important.”

Dr. Jeenam Shah, Consultant Pulmonology, Wockhard Hospital, Mumbai Central told HealthandMe that scarves, handkerchiefs and loose-fitting surgical masks are also not adequate substitutes for a properly fitted N95 or equivalent respirator. He said, "During severe pollution, an N95 mask is a better option when outdoor exposure is unavoidable."

She also recommended not wearing masks for long hours and disposing them off when they get soiled.

She said, “An N95 can be worn for several hours if it remains dry, clean, undamaged and fits properly. Replace it if breathing becomes difficult or the mask becomes wet or dirty. Disposable N95 masks should not be washed. If wearing one for long periods, take breaks in a cleaner indoor environment when possible. The mask should fit closely around the nose and mouth, as gaps reduce its effectiveness.”

Indoor exposure can also be reduced by keeping windows closed when outdoor pollution is high, using an appropriately sized HEPA air purifier where available and avoiding indoor sources of smoke.

Dr Kantroo said, “Polluted air can enter through gaps in doors and windows, while cooking fumes, incense, smoking and cleaning products can add to indoor pollution. A HEPA air purifier can reduce fine particles, provided it is suitable for the room size and its filters are maintained. During severe pollution, keep windows closed. Ventilate when outdoor air quality improves, rather than relying on a fixed time of day.”

Dr Gupta also recommended using masks and keeping an air purifier at home to maintain indoor air quality.

Dr Kantroo also spoke about morning walks and outdoor exercise when AQI is severe. She explained, “When AQI is Very Poor or Severe, strenuous outdoor exercise should be avoided."

Dr Shah explained that physical activity increases your breathing rate, which means you inhale more pollutants and expose your lungs to higher levels of harmful particles. He advised, "Instead, opt for indoor exercises in a well-ventilated, air-purified environment. If outdoor activity is unavoidable, keep it brief and avoid high-traffic areas."

Air pollution contributes to several common ailments, such as asthma and allergies. There are many less obvious health issues caused by breathing polluted air, including an increase in blood pressure and long-term cardiovascular damage. High air quality indexes and the corresponding effect on blood pressure should be a point of study, especially in cities where poor air quality is a problem that seems to come and go.

AQI & High Blood Pressure

When we breathe in polluted air, it’s not only about the particulate matter; there is also a variety of gases that come along with it. Especially in the case of fine particulate matter, like PM2.5, it’s possible to inhale particulate matter directly into the lungs and from there, into the blood stream. Pollution that enters the bloodstream has the potential to induce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. The combination of stress and pollution to the body can have a negative impact on blood vessels, potentially even decreasing the flexibility and elasticity of blood vessels, which in turn leads to the heart working overtime, and eventually, increasing blood pressure.

Also read: With Delhi AQI Nearing 400, Pollution & Flu Loom Ahead Of Diwali: What Happens When Both Hit Your Lungs?

Another significant issue is how air pollution interacts with the stress response system. The sympathetic nervous system controls the fight or flight response, and it may cause blood pressure and heart rate to go up temporarily. This can be very harmful to individuals with preexisting conditions like diabetes, hypertension or other heart issues, especially when coupled with recurrent exposure.

The insidious nature of pollution is the biggest concern here. An individual may experience no signs of respiratory health problems but will nonetheless have been exposed to substances that have negatively impacted their overall health. So, bad air quality should not be thought of as a purely respiratory issue.

How To Stay Safe?

Being informed about local air quality forecasts is something people should do more often, especially if there is an increasing trend in AQI levels. Another step people can take to limit exposure is limiting exercise outdoors close to areas with a high amount of traffic, especially if there is a lot of traffic at that time. Other preventive actions can be taking the time to fit N95 masks when it's absolutely necessary to be exposed to air outdoors and keeping all of the windows and doors in their homes closed when air pollution levels become very high and keeping an indoor air purifier turned on.

Individuals should still focus on monitoring their blood pressure and following through with their doctor's orders. If you are mindful of what impacts our health, you may realize how closely linked heart and lung health are.