What are the harms of AIDS?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, as a severe immunodeficiency disease, HIV/AIDS primarily causes harm by damaging the immune system, triggering various infections, impairing organ function, affecting mental health, and creating social burdens. The impacts of HIV/AIDS are far-reaching; however, infection can be effectively prevented through scientific preventive measures. Individuals who are already infected should receive standardized treatment as early as possible to control viral replication.
Generally, as a severe immunodeficiency disease, AIDS poses major health risks including immune system destruction, multiple infections, organ dysfunction, mental health impacts, and societal burdens. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Immune System Destruction: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continuously attacks CD4+ T lymphocytes in the body, which are central to immune defense. Extensive viral replication leads to a sharp decline in the number and loss of function of these immune cells, ultimately resulting in complete collapse of the immune system and leaving the body unable to resist pathogens.
2. Multiple Infections: After immune system failure, the body becomes vulnerable to invasion by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other pathogens, leading to recurrent infections. Common conditions include tuberculosis, Pneumocystis pneumonia, and cytomegalovirus infection. These infections are difficult to treat, frequently recur, progressively deplete bodily functions, and may directly threaten life in severe cases.
3. Organ Damage: The virus can directly invade multiple organs throughout the body, while secondary infections and inflammatory responses can also indirectly damage organs. Neurological complications may include cognitive impairment and dementia; the digestive system is prone to chronic diarrhea and liver injury; cardiovascular diseases and kidney disorders may also develop, potentially leading to multi-organ failure.
4. Mental Health Impact: Patients often face social prejudice and discrimination, along with physical suffering and concerns about prognosis, making them susceptible to psychological issues. Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are common, and some patients may even experience psychological breakdowns, negatively affecting treatment adherence and quality of life.
5. Societal Burden: The prolonged and costly treatment process imposes significant financial strain on patients' families. Additionally, due to its infectious nature, the disease may trigger public anxiety. If not properly controlled, it threatens public health security and increases the consumption of societal medical resources.
The consequences of AIDS are far-reaching, but infection can be effectively prevented through scientific measures. Individuals who are already infected should receive standardized treatment as early as possible to suppress viral replication, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of transmission.
