PLWHA stands for People Living With HIV / AIDS. In other words, PLWHA are those who have contracted HIV / AIDS. They are often excluded from the community, because their existence is considered dangerous to the surrounding environment. In reality HIV will not be transmitted simply through social contact.

HIV (Human Immunodeficienty Virus) is a type of virus attack human immunity. This virus will attack T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in antibody production and attacks foreign cells that enter the body. The next stage of HIV infection is AIDS, which is a collection of symptoms caused by damage to the body's immune system.

In PLWHA, opportunistic infections are often found in various organ systems, which will be increased risk of various types of malignancy, such as cervical cancer, Kaposi's sarcoma and lymphoma. Therefore PLWHA often experiences symptoms of systemic infections such as fever, sweating (especially at night), swollen glands, chills, weakness / fatigue, appetite disorders, and weight loss.

Although the cure for HIV / AIDS yet to be founded, the virus can be inhibited by using ARV (Antiretroviral). Thus PLWHA body will have time to rebuild its immune system. With an improved immune system, it is expected that the body will be able to overcome infections so that the quality of life will be better and life expectancy will be longer.

PLWHA does not need to be shunned because with proper and correct treatment and management, transmission of the HIV virus can be prevented. With proper and correct treatment and management, it is possible for PLWHA to have a non-PLWHA  partner and be able to transmit it. Also, with proper and correct treatment and management, mothers living with HIV is able to give birth to healthy childre.

Author: dr. Tony Iman, Sp.PK (Doctor in Charge of Pramita Laboratory Jl. Kelapa Dua Raya No. 18 Jakarta).