Biology Week 9: Cell Biology: HIV and AIDS

" How do you feel about western approaches to HIV/AIDS?"

-It is a work in progress........................................................................

-The human immunodeficiency virus is of the lentivirinae sub-family of retroviruses. There have been two strains of HIV identified: HIV-1 ( in the US) which binds to CD4 receptors and HIV-2 (found in Africa).

-Ongoing antiretroviral clinical trials are charged with the task of determining: -when to initiate antiretroviral therapy,- whether monotherapy or combination therapy is more effective,- when to change antiretroviral therapy.

The antiretroviral therapy is targeted at different steps in the replication cycle so diagnosis and testing phases are vital. The use of AZT have severe adverse effects on women with early on infection. Headaches, nausea, and malaise are the main chief complaint. AZT and related treatments target the bone marrow to prevent opportunistic infections. Most countries provide routine testing for pregnant women presenting at STD clinics. HIV prevention initiatives have been successful in reducing HIV infections within health care settings. However, the concern is about populations that are not covered by insurance, access to treatment and care remains an obstacle for many people. The focus is on cost effective and sustainable treatment to specific groups that are at high risk.

TCM treatment: it is utilized  to enhance treatment protocols that are often harsh on the immune system. An adjunct to the use of needles is moxibustion which has a deeply penetrating effect which can locally sooth surrounding tissue. Herbal formulations are also recommended. Herbal decoctions are prepared to support immune function and decrease side effects.

-2) Ecophilosophy,Ecosophy and the Deep Ecology Movement:

The mission of Ecophilosophy is to "explore a diversity of perspectives on human nature contexts and interrelationships," Ecological harmony which takes into account a comprehensive view of human and individual experience. This movement has a philosophy tied to nature and attempts to incorporate diversity at subsequent levels, which include and not limited to policies and social justice. The Platform Principles of the Deep Ecology Movement are to assist the process of self-realization for all beings. Its a movement with potential outcomes.