Gene/Protein Disease Symptom Drug Enzyme Compound
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Query: UMLS:C0021051 (immunodeficiency)
 71,517 document(s) hit in 31,850,051 MEDLINE articles (0.00 seconds)

This small descriptive study investigated the experiences of Ugandan women living with a diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), exploring what assisted them to cope and identifying their future concerns. A purposeful sample of seven HIV-positive women was accessed through two indigenous non-governmental organizations in Eastern Uganda. Single semi-structured interviews were conducted on location. Following analysis of the narrative data, three principal aspects of their experiences emerged: loss and adversity, constructive living, and future uncertainties. Loss and adversity encompassed bereavements, multiple psychosocial losses and physical suffering. Constructive living related to the ability to adopt positive living activities, rebuilding shattered lives, sometimes from the brink of despair. Since the participants were all mothers, future concerns focused on child care anxieties. Stress and uncertainty surrounding HIV testing of children was also evident. Despite the cultural contrast, many of the findings were remarkably similar to those documented in Western literature. The women related their experiences with an absence of self-pity or resentment. Resilience, resourcefulness and hope were typically, perhaps instinctively, demonstrated.
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PMID:A study of the experiences of women living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda. 1241 95

The global human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic reached staggering proportions over the past 2 decades, particularly in areas of sub-Saharan Africa and other developing countries. Tremendous increases in donor resources over the past decade have allowed for a rapid scale-up of antiretroviral treatment and greater access to basic care and prevention programs in countries worst affected by HIV infection and AIDS. These programs have had a tremendous impact on the lives of millions of individuals and have also created optimism and hope where previously there was despair. Major challenges remain in combating the current HIV pandemic with regard to access to treatment; efficiency, quality, and sustainability of current programs; and the scale-up of evidence-based, effective prevention strategies. The global health community and political leaders will need to overcome these challenges if a long-term effective response to the HIV pandemic is to be achieved.
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PMID:Setting the stage: current state of affairs and major challenges. 2039 59