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.

Urine leakage when you cough, sneeze or exercise is often dismissed as something women simply have to live with after pregnancy or childbirth. But pelvic floor problems can affect both women and men and may interfere with daily activities, confidence, relationships and sexual health.

Many people quietly live with symptoms such as urine leakage, urgency, pelvic pressure or pain, while even those who seek medical help may not know the underlying cause. Speaking to HealthandMe, doctors said these can be signs of pelvic floor dysfunction — a treatable condition that should not be ignored.

Early identification and appropriate treatment can help prevent symptoms from disrupting everyday life.

What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles in the pelvis do not relax, contract or coordinate properly. These muscles support the bladder, bowel and reproductive organs.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the pelvic floor muscles act like a supportive hammock. When they are too tight, weak or poorly coordinated, normal bladder, bowel and sexual functions can be affected.

Pregnancy and childbirth are important risk factors, but pelvic floor problems can also affect men. Symptoms may include urinary urgency or leakage, pelvic pain or pressure and bowel problems.

Other factors such as sedentary lifestyles, stress, obesity and constipation may be contributing to pelvic floor dysfunction.

Also read: Endometriosis Can Take Years To Diagnose But This AI Tool Can Identify Its Signs In 18 Milliseconds

What Can Increase The Risk Of Pelvic Floor Problems?

Dr Nirmala M, Consultant, Obstetrician, Gynaecologist & Fertility Specialist, Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru, told HealthandMe that sedentary office work, stress, obesity and constipation can contribute to pelvic floor problems. Poor water intake and regularly holding urine can also play a role.

“It is seen that almost four of every five cases of incontinence observed in hospitals have been identified among young women aged 25 to 35 years old,” she said.

Pelvic floor dysfunction can affect men too, particularly in association with urinary, bowel or prostate-related problems.

Dr Meghana Reddy Jetty, Senior Consultant - Obstetrics, Gynecology, Laparoscopy and Aesthetic Gynecology, Aster Women and Children, Bengaluru, said men may also experience urinary leakage and bowel control problems, including in association with pelvic operations and prostatic procedures.

“Men have pelvic floor muscles too, which are responsible for bladder and bowel control and proper functioning of the pelvis,” she said.

What Are The Early Signs?

Read More: Ferritin Face: Can Pale Skin Signal Iron Deficiency?

Symptoms can vary depending on whether the pelvic floor muscles are weak, too tight or poorly coordinated.

Common signs include:

• Urine leakage while coughing, sneezing or exercising
• A sudden or uncontrollable urge to urinate
• Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel
• Pelvic heaviness or pressure
• Pelvic discomfort
• Pain during intercourse

Dr Nirmala said urinary leakage during physical strain and a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate are among the early symptoms.

Dr Meghana said occasional urine leakage, difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel, pelvic heaviness, discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse can indicate that the pelvic floor is not functioning properly.

How Can Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Affect Daily Life?

The condition can affect more than bladder or bowel control. Fear of leakage, urgency or pain may cause people to avoid exercise, travel and social activities.

Dr Nirmala said some women avoid parties and long-distance travel because of difficulty finding a nearby bathroom. In serious cases, they may rely on diapers or sanitary pads, affecting confidence and increasing stress.

Pelvic floor dysfunction can also affect sexual health. Pain and difficulty relaxing the pelvic muscles may lead women to avoid sexual activity.

“It can hurt sexual health if pain and difficulty in relaxing pelvic muscles cause one to avoid sexual activity. This kind of problem that seemingly just involves the physical aspect can slowly but surely have a great effect on one's confidence, relationships and behavior in general,” said Dr Meghana.

Can Exercise Make Pelvic Floor Symptoms Worse?

Exercise can support pelvic health, but the type, intensity and technique matter.

Dr Swati Rai, Senior Consultant-Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Noida, said exercises such as Kegels, diaphragmatic breathing, pelvic tilts, glute bridges and gentle core strengthening can help support the pelvic floor during and after pregnancy, depending on the individual.

“Kegels involve gently contracting the muscles used to control urine, holding briefly and then completely relaxing; they should not be routinely practized while urinating,” she told HealthandMe.

However, excessive or improperly performed high-impact exercise, intense interval training, repeated jumping and weightlifting can place additional pressure on the pelvic floor, particularly when breathing and core control are inadequate.

Dr Meghana said pelvic-floor training should focus on muscle control rather than simply increasing repetitions.

“So, training of pelvic muscles should be more about learning muscle control - knowing when to contract and when to relax - rather than just doing more and more repetitions,” she said.

Dr Swati said excessive straining, breath-holding or incorrectly performed high-impact exercises may aggravate symptoms.

Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Treatable?

Pelvic floor dysfunction can improve significantly with appropriate, personalized treatment. However, treatment depends on whether the muscles are weak, overly tight or poorly coordinated.

Treatment may include:

• Pelvic floor retraining
• Physical therapy
• Core strengthening
• Relaxation and breathing exercises
• Biofeedback

Noncommunicable diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases affect billions of people worldwide and cause around 43 million deaths every year, with most deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

These conditions often require lifelong care. From diagnosis and medication to monitoring and follow-up, each stage can carry safety risks, making timely, coordinated and patient-centered care essential.

World Patient Safety Day is observed every year on September 17 to raise awareness about patient safety and accelerate action to reduce avoidable harm in healthcare. Around the world, one in 10 patients experience harm while receiving health care, and approximately half of these incidents are preventable.

In 2026, the campaign focuses on safe care for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), with the slogan “Safe care for life!”

“World Patient Safety Day is an annual reminder that if it's not safe, it's not care. This year, we're shining a light on safe care for non-communicable diseases. People with heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory disease need care throughout their lives,” Dr Tedros shared in a post on X.

He noted that every interaction with the health system comes with benefits and risks.

“A delayed diagnosis, the wrong medicine, an unsafe procedure, or poor communication can have deadly consequences. Safe care must be built into every stage of the care journey, from prevention and early diagnosis to treatment, long-term management, and self-care,” the chief added.

Also read: World Patient Safety Day: With 2800% Margin, Costly Hospital Consumables Can Threaten Patient Safety; Here’s How

Why Do Chronic Conditions Raise The Risk Of Harm?

People with chronic diseases often need medicines, tests, consultations and other healthcare services over many years, increasing safety risks, particularly when care is fragmented or healthcare providers are not well coordinated.

Patient safety risks can occur at different stages of care. Common sources include:

• Missed prevention opportunities

• Delayed or incorrect diagnosis

• Medication errors

• Healthcare-associated infections

• Unsafe use of medical devices

• Poor communication and coordination

How Can Patients With Chronic Diseases Stay Safe?

Understanding your diagnosis and treatment can help you take an active role in your care.

• Know your diagnosis, treatment plan and why tests or medicines are needed.

• Use trusted health sources and ask questions when something is unclear.

• Confirm instructions and follow up on test results.

• Speak up if something feels wrong.

• Keep an updated list of your diagnoses, medicines and treatment plan, especially when seeing multiple doctors.

• Attend regular appointments and know the warning signs that need medical attention.

• Plan how you will access essential medicines, tests and follow-up care during disruptions.

Continuity of care is particularly important for people with NCDs. Poorly coordinated referrals, handovers and discharge processes can create safety gaps, especially for those managing multiple conditions or medicines.

Read More: Stem Cell Therapy For Autism: What India’s New Advisory Means For Patients

Safer Care Also Depends On The Health System

Patient safety cannot be addressed by patients alone. Strong policies, coordinated healthcare services and well-supported health workers are essential to reducing avoidable harm.

Fragmented care can put people managing complex chronic conditions at greater risk. Better communication between multidisciplinary teams can help identify problems earlier and reduce gaps in care.

Delayed referrals can also cost valuable time. Well-coordinated referral pathways can help patients receive the right care at the right time.

What Should Healthcare Systems Do?

The WHO called on healthcare facility managers, health leaders and policymakers to strengthen patient safety as part of everyday NCD care. This includes building resilient facilities, strengthening risk management, supporting health workers and establishing reliable systems for continuous care before, during and after emergencies, according to the WHO.

Healthcare systems should also ensure uninterrupted access to essential medicines, diagnostics and medical devices while strengthening referral pathways and communication between healthcare providers.

Investing in preparedness, continuous learning and quality improvement can further help reduce avoidable harm and improve the safety and quality of chronic disease care.

Something as basic as an IV set, syringe, cannula or catheter can make a huge difference in a patient’s essential care and treatment. But a recent FDA survey has raised questions about the affordability of these hospital consumables and whether the lack of transparency in pricing can pose a threat to patient safety.

Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe recently flagged exorbitantly priced hospital consumables and medical devices used in inpatient departments.

The food and drug regulator sought Centre’s intervention to straighten pricing of essential and life-saving medical devices, saying these practices should be ideally “fair, transparent and ethical”.

Maharashtra FDA Chief Tukaram Mundhe Flags Costly Hospital Consumables

The Maharashtra State Price Monitoring Resource Unit, operating under the state FDA, recently conducted the market survey covering medical devices used in inpatient departments, including IV sets, syringes, nebuliser, and oxygen-mask kits, and other consumables.

The survey found that some commonly used medical devices had a gap of up to 2,841% between procurement prices and printed maximum retail prices (MRPs).

For example, an IV infusion set purchased for Rs 11.05 was listed at an MRP of Rs 325. A 10 ml syringe purchased for Rs 6.75 had an MRP of Rs 57.20, while a catheter bought for Rs 29.41 had an MRP of Rs 310.

Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has sought intervention from the Centre and the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), arguing that patients admitted to hospitals are not in the position to bargain over medical products that are essential to their treatment. They may not have the opportunity to compare prices, search for another brand, or simply refuse the product.

In a recent interview, Mundhe said, “A trade margin of 2800 per cent is by any terms not acceptable, either as a consumer or as a hospital or as a regulator.”

Mundhe highlighted this problem in his letter to the Department of Pharmaceuticals, writing, “Because hospitalised patients critically require these non-negotiable surgical consumables during active treatment, they possess zero bargaining power in IPD settings.”

He also described the steep pricing as “completely irrational and unjustified” and argued that the absence of strict statutory price caps for several medical-device categories can leave patients facing large and opaque price differences.

The Centre has now sought a report from the NPPA on the price discrepancies flagged by the Maharashtra FDA.

Also read: Syphilis Among Australian Women Has Risen By 167% In The Last Decade: How It Can Affect Pregnancy & Newborns?

Costly Hospital Consumables May Become A Patient-Safety Issue

World Patient Safety Day is observed on September 17 every year to raise global awareness about the safety of patients and reduce preventable harm in healthcare.

As far as patient safety is concerned, it is not only about whether a device is sterile, functional, or medically appropriate. Affordability and transparency can also influence whether patients are able to access and continue necessary treatment.

A fat hospital bill may cause financial burden, discouraging patients from seeking timely treatment. For families paying out of pocket, unexpected costs can affect decisions about where to seek care, whether to continue treatment or whether to delay non-emergency follow-up.

Mundhe has described the issue directly as a patient-protection concern, saying, “This is not merely a pricing issue; it is a patient-protection issue.”

Also read: Ferritin Face: Can Pale Skin Signal Iron Deficiency?

Industry’s Response To The Maharashtra FDA

The procurement price of a device, however, cannot automatically be treated as the final cost of safely delivering it to a patient.

Hospitals may incur costs related to sterile storage, inventory, staff, emergency availability, wastage, expiry, infrastructure, quality checks, and safe disposal.

Industry representatives have therefore argued that pricing frameworks should distinguish between basic commodity consumables and complex medical technologies.

In a statement, the Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI) said, “Price of device or medicine is very small part of overall cost of administering healthcare, which include manpower (doctors, nurses, paramedical, administration etc.) maintaining infection free environment, infrastructure etc.”

They also reacted to Maharashtra FDA’s pricing concerns and said that hospitals play no part in setting up MRPs of these products.