...Running Head: THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF HIV/AIDS The Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS Michael Reynolds Grand Canyon University: NRS-434V 08/28/2014 THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF HIV/AIDS 2 The Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS In June of 1981 the CDC published a report titled “Pneumocystis Pneumonia – Los Angeles.” This report is often noted as the beginning of AIDS awareness (Avert.org, 2014a). Since its discovery, the World Health Organization (WHO, 2014) estimates over 33 million people have been infected worldwide, 47% women and 33% children ages 15-24. More than 25 million men, women and children have died from this devastating viral infection. It is a worldwide pandemic that affects only humans. The virus is called the (H) human – it only infects human beings, (I) immunodeficiency – it works by inhabiting and destroying the T-cells (CD4), which are the fighter cells against body infections, and (V) virus – an infectious agent that replicates inside the living cells of a living organism and cause damage to its host (Aids.gov, 2014f). Normally our CD4 cells eradicate viruses, such as the common cold. HIV is unusual in that it hides within and destroys our “fighter” cells. Not only does the HIV virus hide and replicate itself in our T-Cells, it is believed to morph over time. Imagine a bank robber hiding from the police by wearing a police uniform and pretending to be one of them. Now imagine that the bank robber can change his disguise, add a mustache or dye his hair, just before the police suspect and...
Words: 2046 - Pages: 9
...SOLOMON SMART KALUBA ID: UB28902SPU37458 PUBLIC HEALTH ASSIGNMENT: DEFINATION OF EPIDEMIOLOGY, ITS USE AND EXAMPLES OF SUCCESS DATE OF SUBMISSION: 5/02/2014. ANTLANTIC INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY HONOLULU, HAWAII Contents Introduction 2 The Historical Context 2 Recent developments in Epidemiology 2 Definition, scope and use of epidemiology 4 Distribution 5 Determinants 5 Health- related states or events 6 Specified populations 6 Application 7 Scope 7 Epidemiology versus Public Health 7 Causation of diseases 8 Achievements in Epidemiology 9 Small pox 9 Methyl Mercury Poisoning 10 Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease 11 Iodine Deficiency Disease 11 Tobacco use, Asbestos and Lung Cancer 12 Hip Fractures 12 HIV/AIDS 13 Global AIDS epidemic 1990–2003 13 SARS 14 Conclusion 15 Bibliography 16 Introduction This essay provides a brief summary of what epidemiology is, what it is used for and discusses the major successes epidemiologist have contributed towards control and eradication of major epidemics. The discussion will also touch on the historical context and development of the emergency of epidemiology as a science and art, and give example of some of the people that greatly contributed to the achievement scored in epidemiology studies and applications. The Historical Context Epidemiology originated from the Hippocrates` observation more than 200 years ago who identified environmental factors to have an influence...
Words: 5070 - Pages: 21
...Epidemiology Paper The purpose of this paper is to discuss the relevancy of the vulnerable population, and the disease for this group. The vulnerable population that has been chosen is mental illness, and the disease for this population is AIDS/HIV. There will be a definition and description of epidemiology in regards to HIV/AIDS, with the steps and method that was used. The Epidemiological Triangle will be define and identified, and the different types of epidemiology. The population chosen characteristics such as the influenced population’s vulnerability. This essay will also examine the values and potential cultural biases with cultural considerations that may impact health issues. There are legal and ethical consideration when working with the mentally ill. Describing the relationship of the disease to varies levels of prevention. Relevant population and the disease of this population The mentally ill the population and the disease is AIDS/HIV. Mental disorders are indiscriminate. They occur across the span and affect persons of all races, cultures genders and educational and socioeconomic group. One of the leading cause of disability is mental illness. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and AIDS have had an enormous political and social impact on society. Nearly 75% of new HIV infections occur in persons between 30-49 years may result in disrupted families and lost careers and economic productivity. (Stanhope, 2012, p317) HIV is transmitted through exposure...
Words: 1966 - Pages: 8
...Epidemiology Paper Ericka Williams NUR/408 October 5, 2015 Willadene Walker-Schmucker Epidemiology Paper According to A Dictionary of Epidemiology (2014), Epidemiology is the science that studies the causes, patterns and effects of health and disease conditions in defined populations. Epidemiology is an evidence-based practice that identifies risk factors and targets preventative healthcare. Epidemiology is a quantitative science built on the working knowledge of probability, statistics, and sound research. Epidemiology research looks at the population to see how many people are infected by the disease and study the disease over time to see if there is a change and what affects the disease have on our population. It is a tool used to promote and protect the public’s health. Steps and Methods of Epidemiology The steps and methods of epidemiology are routinely collecting data, epidemiologic data, and collecting data for other purposes these methods study health-related events. Routinely collected data can vary depending on time and region, this is data collected in a general population, such as births, deaths, and infectious diseases, (Stanhope & Lancaster 2012). Epidemiologic data uses surveys in specific populations to answer questions of concern and interest (Stanhope & Lancaster 2012). Data collected for other purposes is for research or investigative purposes within a region or area of interest (Stanhope & Lancaster 2012). Epidemiological triangle The...
Words: 1958 - Pages: 8
...Epidemiology Paper Epidemiology has become the method of choice for public health research. The patterns and trends and cause and effects of health affecting phenomena identified by epidemiology are instrumental in predicting risk factors e.g.; development of treatment strategies to prevent or contain diseases. Epidemiology estimates have changed over time related to changes in the definition and diagnosis of diseases. Epidemiology is practiced as a broad scientific discipline that addresses occurrences of diseases and distribution of health status of populations. Integration of casual concepts at the clinical, social and environmental levels will allow faculty to work to maintain an intellectual environment that will facilitate the integration of biological, social and, analytical approaches of epidemiology. This type of environment allows faculty and students to develop the knowledge to fully appreciate the complexities of biosocial system to understand, modify, and use this information to maximum potential. The focus of this paper will be on immigrant/migrants as a vulnerable population with emphasis on infectious disease a major health concern. The paper will define epidemiology and identify steps and methods of the type of epidemiology and examines relationships of illnesses and education related to infectious diseases. Epidemiology defined Stanhope & Lancaster (2008) defines epidemiology as “the study of the distribution and determination of health- related states...
Words: 1981 - Pages: 8
...Epidemiology and Vulnerable Population NUR/408 January 14, 2013 Theresa White Epidemiology and Vulnerable Population This paper will define epidemiology and vulnerable population. The methods and steps involved in the epidemiology process will be discussed. The diseases of a specific vulnerable population and emphasis of one disease will be examined with cultural, ethical, and legal considerations. The epidemiology triangle is explained and evaluating the feasibility of prevention will be explored with definitive steps for prevention. Epidemiology and Vulnerable Population Stanhope and Lancaster (2012) states “epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related events in human populations and the application of this knowledge to improving the health of communities (p. 282). In many communities there populations at risk for to specific health care problems creating a vulnerable population. “Vulnerability is a general concept meaning “susceptibility,” and its specific connotation in terms of health care is at risk for health problems” (De Chesney, 2008, p. 3). As Stanhope and Lancaster (2012) identify “epidemiology is a multidisciplinary enterprise that recognizes the complex interrelationships of factors that influence disease and health at both the individual level and the community level; it provides the basic tools for the study of health and disease in communities” (p. 282). In every community there are vulnerable populations...
Words: 2427 - Pages: 10
...Epidemiology and Vulnerable Populations Angela Wilson NUR / 408 November 4, 2013 Epidemiology and Vulnerable Populations Introduction Health is a state of optimum well-being, a human right and a social goal. The public health mission is to provide and assure conditions that promote health in the community. Public health, epidemiology and nursing practice share the same goal of disease prevention and control. By definition, epidemiology is the study of population in order to monitor the health of the population, understand the determinants of health and disease in the community, and investigate and evaluate interventions to prevent disease and maintain health. (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2012). Epidemiology today is considered to be the core science of public health and is described as a constellation of disciplines with a common mission: optimal health for the whole community (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2008). Epidemiology has reformed public health and continues to strive for disease prevention and health promotion in communities across the world. The population...
Words: 1966 - Pages: 8
...Epidemiology Paper – HIV/AIDS Epidemiology is defined as “the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations, and the application of this study to control of health problems” (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2008, p. 243). According to Medscape’s (2011) website, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are prevalent among homeless girls and women (both sheltered and unsheltered) and is attributed to lack of access to condoms, survival sex, prostitution, intravenous drug use, language barriers, and citizenship status. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, the body's natural defense system. Not having a good immune system means the body will have trouble getting rid of disease. The infection it creates and the virus is called HIV. One of the most important pieces of the immune system is the White Blood cells. The HIV virus targets and destroy a specific white blood cell called CD4+ cells. The human body can’t defend itself from infection if way too many CD4+ cells are neutralized. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the last phase of HIV infection. People get rare Cancer or infections that healthy people almost never get if they have low amount of CD4+ with AIDS. This could be fatal. Although just because you have HIV, doesn’t mean you also have AIDS. It usually takes 10-12 years for HIV to become aids even without any treatment. If the HIV virus is diagnosed before AIDS develop, then medicines...
Words: 1744 - Pages: 7
...Epidemiology in HIV & Community Nursing Practice Tiffany Gomez Grand Canyon University Concepts in Community and Public Health NRS 427 Kelly Davis May 10, 2015 Epidemiology in HIV & Community Nursing Practice Identifying and understanding the associated risk factors with the acquisition and transmission of HIV as well as the development of AIDS progression in all persons are critical components in the fight against this disease (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases [NIH], 2013, para. 1). The HIV epidemic continues to be a growing concern as the pace of new infections continues at a high levels. (Centers for Disease Control [CDC], 2009, p. 1). The excessive burden of HIV/AIDS is neither unavoidable nor acceptable. It is possible to end the U.S epidemic but such a realization will require a throughout understanding of HIV in relation to demographics, social determinants of health, the epidemiological model, the role of the community health nurse as well as organizations that work to address HIV/AIDS. HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus which quite simply means that it can only affect human beings and does so by weakening key aspects of the immune system so that the body has very limited capacity to fight infections. HIV can only be contracted through bodily fluid exposure. The body typically is able to rid itself of viruses completely but that is what differentiates HIV from other viruses; once you have it, you have it for life (Department...
Words: 1720 - Pages: 7
...Perspectives Historical keywords Epidemiology FROM: The Lancet Vol 365 April 2 2005 Derived from the Greek epidemia, “prevalence of disease”, and embedded in the 5th/4th century BC title of a Hippocratic treatise (Epidemics), epidemiology conceals more than its dictionary definition reveals—the branch of medical science concerned with the incidence and distribution of disease. For inherent to the concept of an “epidemic” is a model of population and a pathologisation of social space. The point of statistics is to command authority on the basis of numerical “facts”, yet the study of the statistics of disease is always shaped by larger political and ideological factors. Since the 19th century, the statistics of disease have served as powerful tools for state intervention, even if the practice of epidemiology was largely observational and aimed at solving disease outbreaks. Disciplinary status was conferred on epidemiology when it became attached to bacteriology, which shifted the study of disease statistics away from environmental factors to an emphasis on monocausal vectors. Further redefinition came through developments in biometrics, pioneered in the UK by Francis Galton (1822–1911) and Karl Pearson (1857–1936) and made acceptable to the medical profession through the efforts of Major Greenwood (1880–1949), the first epidemiologist in the UK to hold an academic appointment. In the 1920s, epidemiology underwent another metamorphosis. For epidemics...
Words: 391 - Pages: 2
...and 39 million people have died worldwide since the virus was first identified ("AIDS statistics," 2015, para. 1). HIV is contracted by direct contact with contaminated blood or body fluids. This infection modifies and destroys the specific cells of the immune system ("HIV basics," 2015, para. 1). The result of HIV infection is the eventual progression to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Disease) (Klatt, 2015, p. 6). HIV and AIDS are commonly used interchangeably when discussing the disease processes in general terms, but there is a distinctive evolution that identifies the presence of HIV to the development of AIDS. Since HIV targets specific cells, massive cellular destruction leads to the state know as acquired immune deficiency syndrome ("HIV basics," 2015). HIV infection currently has no cure and once acquired. However, with early detection and use of new medication combinations, it can be managed ("HIV Treatment," 2014, para. 3). Epidemiology is the medical study of the causes and transmission of disease within a population. Epidemiologist target specific strategies to break the epidemiological triangle of the agent, the host and the environment. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are organizations that supervise the identification of communicable diseases and provide information to the United States and other world countries. The HIV/AIDS, first reported in 1981, was found in West Africa (Maurer & Smith,...
Words: 1633 - Pages: 7
...Epidemiology: HIV Tomekia L. Dinham, RN Grand Canyon University Concepts in Community and Public Health NRS-427v Dr. A. Cline-Owens, RN, Ph.D. December 14, 2015 Epidemiology: HIV Epidemiology is the science of studying the history, causes and treatment of diseases and infections. Epidemiological information is used by nurses to identify high risk populations with preventable health conditions (Maurer & Smith, 2013). Human Immunodeficiency Virus, also referred to as HIV, is a preventable sexually transmitted disease that requires persistent monitoring by healthcare professionals. Community health nurses play a pivotal role in supporting efforts against HIV by understanding and exploring the epidemiology of HIV through collecting, reporting and analyzing data related to the determinants of health. Simply put, HIV is a virus that attacks a person’s immune system. It specifically affects CD4 cells which are also called T cells. These cells are what the body uses for an immune response. HIV destroys the T cells that fight infection leaving the patient susceptible to immune system compromise. This results in the patient being open to opportunistic infections that lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. AIDS, as it is commonly referred as, is a progression of HIV after the CD4 count falls to 200 or less (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015). HIV is transmitted by bodily fluids such as blood, semen, breastmilk, and vaginal secretions. Anal sex carries...
Words: 1554 - Pages: 7
...Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is defined as the most severe form of an illness associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. HIV is caused by retrovirus. It is similar to other viruses such as the flu virus, but the only difference is that once a person gets in contact with retrovirus the person is infected with HIV for the rest of their life. The virus spreads when in it comes in contact with human tissue. The virus infects human CD4 cell and weakens the immune system that fights against infection. There is no cure for AIDS /HIV but there are medications to slow the progression of the disease. “HIV can be prevented by screening before pregnancy, protected sex, use of sterile syringes or needles, and screening of blood before transfusion” (Daar &Mark, 2012). A person infected with HIV develops flu-like symptoms within a month or two after the virus enters the body. These symptoms may last for several months to several years till person becomes symptomatic. The early symptoms are swollen lymph glands mainly on neck ulcers on the mouth or genitals, sore throat, and joint pain. The HIV infection, if not treated, can progress to AIDS in about 10 years. The clinical manifestations of AIDS may affect other organs in the system, including more serious infections, fatigue, fever, diarrhea, weight loss, fungal infection of nails and malignancies (Daar & Marks, 2012). Epidemiology evidence indicates that HIV is transmitted through blood, body fluid, seminal...
Words: 1207 - Pages: 5
...Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in Mauritius Paper Presenter: Satish K Ramchurn, Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius Author(s): • Faatimah N Angnoo, Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius • Smita SD Goorah, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius • Satish K Ramchurn, Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius Introduction Mauritius is currently experiencing a concentrated HIV/AIDS epidemic. The epidemic is said to be concentrated because the prevalence in the general population is low (about 0.2%) whereas the prevalence in the high-risk groups of intravenous drug users (IDUs), commercial sex workers (CSWs), and prison inmates is high (between 15-20 %). For example, 485 out of the current 2126 prison inmates have tested HIV positive (23%). The overall prevalence for the 14-49 year-old age group is estimated at about 2 %. The HIV/AIDS epidemic in Mauritius is essentially IDU-driven. As the epidemic threatens to significantly affect the 14-20 year old age group through intravenous drug use and to expand to the general population with the CSW group acting as a bridge, it has become important to understand the epidemiology of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Mauritius and to develop a mathematical model to characterize the dynamics of the epidemic and to use the model to propose mitigating measures. Methods We reviewed and analyzed the HIV/AIDS prevalence data for...
Words: 620 - Pages: 3
...Week 1: Core Functions and the HIV/AIDS Epidemic According to the book, “Introduction to public health” the HIV was at its highest in the 1980’s. The new cases that were recorded in the U.S at the time were at its greatest. The new case that was recorded was about 50000 every year. It is not a shock that those numbers were reached because it was at the time that public health was taken for granted and most people were unaware of its activities. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the latter stage of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and usually in the case of HIV; it might take a while to realize that the patient is affected by the virus and it comes with no symptoms. It takes about 3 months to get an idea from a medical perspective that the virus is present because in some cases, it is possible to get a false negative or a false positive because the immune system has not been really affected. AIDS however, does show symptoms as the CD4 count is usually lower 200. The number of lives lost from this deadly disease is quite huge. This situation has been a struggle on the infected and the affected. The 3 core functions of public health as discussed by “The future public health” from include assessment, policy development and assurance. Assessment: The constant assessment in the 3rd world countries especially in Africa has been significant in the past years. Assessment according to the book introduction to public health evaluates the health community...
Words: 723 - Pages: 3
