HIV/AIDS AS A DEVELOPMENTAL PROBLEM IN CAMEROON: ISSUES, IMPACTS & WAY FORWARD

Since the discovery of the HIV, our knowledge and understanding of the immunopathogenesis of HIV-1 infection, AIDS viral life cycle and the host response to infection have increased significantly. As a result, virus specific interventions have been developed that are highly active and that can contain viral replication. The damaged immune system can then be at least partially immune reconstituted, and even individuals presenting with late-stage infection now have an expectation of long-term survival if they have access to antiretrovirals and expert healthcare providers. The extraordinary effort of scientists to understand and contain HIV-1 infection has led to new knowledge discoveries in areas such as virology, immunology, and oncology. Despite the advances in HIV treatment, there continues to be considerable variation in HIV disease progression. In addition to biological mechanisms, we need to consider behavioral and psychosocial factors such as depression, stress and coping that may affect adherence to medications as well as the immunology and virology of the disease. Moreover, efforts need to be sustained and increased globally in order to eliminate the incidence of HIV/AIDS infections around the world, and particularly in Africa to the barest minimum. While the prevalence of HIV/AIDS infection is very high in Africa, its high incidence in Cameroun makes it very alarming coupled with the fact that it tends to affect vulnerable groups such as women and children. Although the Cameroonian government in its effort to curb the HIV and AIDS pandemic has made significant achievements barely midway into the implementation of the second national strategic plan, there is still much to be done if the incidence of HIV/AIDS is to be completely dealt with…………