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.

For some people, getting inked is more than a passion—it is a form of self-expression. And tattoos are nothing short of an addiction; it is not easy to stop at one. Despite being a painful procedure that requires a great deal of caution—using fresh needles and safe ink, for instance—several incidents come to light where getting a tattoo goes wrong in irreversible ways. In a recent case, a man developed a weeping, black ulcer of dead flesh on his neck months after getting a tattoo. In this case, doctors blamed this reaction on the colour of the tattoo ink—it may have triggered inflammation that caused the skin to blacken and die.

A reaction from the tattoo ink

A 20-year-old man had a red cross tattoo on the base of his neck. After three months, it faded away spontaneously and was replaced by scars and bumps on either side of the neck, accompanied by a necrotic ulcer. In this case, when the tissue blackens and dies, it results in a painful wound. The unnamed man was hospitalised five months after getting his first tattoo. Doctors examining the patient found that the lymph nodes, which help fight infections, were swollen and hard. Doctors also examined a large crusted ulcer, which had spread across the base of the neck and had seeped into deeper layers of skin.

Read more: Tattoos May Increase Cancer Risk, Study Suggests

Doctors also performed an MRI and found large lumps around the ulcer that measured up to 5 cm. There were two blood clots in the jugular vein as well. Two biopsies were taken of the necrotic ulcer, but they did not reveal what may have triggered the necrosis. The team was then concerned about the scan results and how fast the patient's condition was progressing. He was then rushed into surgery, where doctors removed the ulcer along with masses on the neck. His neck was then reconstructed using fat from the thighs. The patient was then diagnosed with necrotising granulomatous lymphadenitis.

What is necrotising granulomatous lymphadenitis?

Necrotising granulomatous lymphadenitis is an inflammatory condition wherein the lymph node tissues die and form clumps of immune cells known as granulomas. This can develop in response to an injury, and in this case, doctors said that the tattoo was to blame.

Doctors said that heavy metals like cadmium and mercury in organic tattoo ink can result in an immune response. From surgery to recovery, the patient's case is published in the journal JAMA Otolaryngology. Experts say that this is only the second known case of necrosis after a tattoo.

What are the riskiest spots for a tattoo?

Getting a tattoo can be painful, but for some people, the pain is worth it. However, according to experts, there are some spots that are not ideal for getting a tattoo. These are:

1. Eyes—can lead to partial or complete blindness
2. Genitals – heightened risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases and infections
3. Spine – a tattoo on the spine is extremely painful, and if it goes wrong, there could be irreversible repercussions

As winter transitions into warmer summer months, many people notice a sudden worsening of dandruff. During colder months, dandruff often appears as dry, fine flakes due to scalp dryness. However, as temperatures rise and humidity increases, dandruff can become oily and sticky because of increased sweating and sebum production. This seasonal shift highlights that dandruff is not limited to a particular time of year; rather, changes in climate can disrupt scalp balance and trigger flare-ups. Dr. Anupriya Goel, MBBS, MD, DPD (UK) – Dermatology, answered this for us.

Why does dandruff recur?

Many people struggle to understand why dandruff keeps recurring. It is often treated as a temporary cosmetic concern, but in reality, dandruff is a chronic scalp condition that requires consistent care and appropriate treatment. The primary cause of dandruff is a yeast called Malassezia globosa, which naturally resides on the scalp. This microorganism feeds on sebum (the natural oils produced by the scalp). As it breaks down these oils, it releases by-products that can irritate the scalp, leading to inflammation, itching, and visible flaking.

Seasonal factors further aggravate this process. In winter, cold air, low humidity, indoor heating, and frequent hot showers can strip the scalp of its natural moisture and weaken the skin barrier, resulting in dryness and flaking. In contrast, summer brings increased sweat and oil production. The combination of humidity, sweat, and sebum creates an ideal environment for Malassezia to multiply, which can worsen dandruff symptoms.

Read here: Simple Secrets To Establishing The Right Winter Hair Care Routine

What are the external factors responsible for dandruff?

Environmental factors such as pollution can also settle on the scalp and contribute to irritation. In addition, daily habits like wearing helmets for long hours, tying up damp hair, or not cleansing the scalp regularly can further disrupt scalp health. The transition period between seasons is often the most challenging, as the scalp has limited time to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Because dandruff is often mistaken for a temporary issue, many people rely on occasional treatments or home remedies. However, effective management typically requires regular scalp-focused care using clinically proven active ingredients.

Treating dandruff

One such ingredient commonly used in anti-dandruff formulations is Piroctone Olamine, an antifungal agent that helps control the growth of Malassezia on the scalp. By reducing fungal proliferation, it helps address the underlying cause of dandruff and can assist in decreasing flaking, itching, and scalp irritation. It also helps cleanse the scalp by removing excess oil and buildup while being relatively gentle on the hair and scalp.

Read more: 7 Ayurvedic Hair Health Tips You Should Try For Healthy Locks

For optimal results, individuals experiencing recurrent dandruff may benefit from incorporating an anti-dandruff shampoo containing Piroctone Olamine into their regular hair care routine. Consistent use is important for maintaining scalp balance. During periods of increased sweating, such as in hot and humid weather, washing frequency may be increased as needed. Maintaining hygiene practices such as regularly cleaning helmets, pillowcases, and hair accessories can also help minimise recurrence.

In addition to controlling dandruff, well-formulated shampoos containing Piroctone Olamine are often combined with conditioning and moisturising ingredients that help maintain hair softness and scalp comfort while supporting long-term scalp balance.

World Autism Awareness Day is observed on April 2 every year, a day to spread awareness about autism, its causes, symptoms, and what parents can do to help their children. But even when it comes to autism, there is a great deal of prejudice surrounding the disorder, which often forces parents into a state of denial. A condition which initially comes across as a personality trait—shyness, for instance—is usually diagnosed late. Dr Hamza Hussain, Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, in an interview with Health and Me, explained how parents can spot the signs of autism early in their children.

How to know if your child is autistic or just shy?

It is completely understandable for parents to feel worried when they notice delays in their child’s speech, social engagement, or behaviour. That said, it is important to recognise the differences between early indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental patterns or conditions.

Read more: World Autism Awareness Day 2026: Can Cell Therapy Be The Future Of Autism Treatment?

Children who may be on the autism spectrum often display ongoing difficulties with social communication and interaction. They might avoid making eye contact, not consistently respond when their name is called, show delays in speech, or find it challenging to engage in two-way conversations. Repetitive actions—such as hand movements, arranging toys in a particular order, or insisting on strict routines—can also be early indicators. On the other hand, children with ADHD are usually more socially responsive but may struggle with focus, impulsive behaviour, and high activity levels. A speech delay alone does not necessarily point to ASD, especially if the child shows good non-verbal communication like gestures, expressions, and social interest.

What are ASD patterns?

One important way to tell the difference is by observing patterns over time. Signs of ASD tend to be consistent across different situations and environments, whereas other behaviours may change depending on the child’s mood, surroundings, or level of stimulation.

Support at home plays a vital role in a child’s development. Simple, consistent interactions can go a long way. Spending time in face-to-face play, encouraging eye contact, and talking through daily activities can strengthen communication skills. Reading stories, singing rhymes, and using gestures can further aid language development. It is also helpful to limit screen exposure, as too much screen time can impact attention span and social learning.

Read more: Why Autism In Women Is Often Overlooked And Misdiagnosed

How can parents help?