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Virology Research Journal | Volume 2
allied
academies
May 18-19, 2018 | Montreal, Canada
2
nd
World Conference on
STDs, STIs & HIV/AIDS
T
his paper describes the Psychological effects of anti-
retroviral (ARV) drugs among men who have sex with
men (MSM). Antiretroviral drugs inhibit the reproduction
of retroviruses—viruses composed of ribonucleic acid
(RNA) rather than deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The best
known of this group is Human Immunodeficiency Virus
(HIV), the causative agent of Acquired Immunodeficiency
Syndrome (AIDS) (Thaker et al. 2003). Antiretroviral agents
are virustatic agents which block steps in the replication of
the virus. The drugs are not curative; however continued use
of drugs, particularly in multi-drug regimens, significantly
slows disease progression. Key informant interview method
to collect information from community leaders who have
first hand knowledge about the community, at least 5-10
key affected clients in their designated treatment facility, a
courtesy call sent to the treatment hub physician via email
for permission. Results shows, surveillance, prevention,
and treatment are impeded by the stigma and secrecy that
surround same-sex behavior, further fueling the epidemic
and creating additional barriers to care. Some men have sex
with other men without self-identifying as gay or bi-sexual,
so they disregard prevention messages directed at the gay
community. The researcher can foster non-judgmental
prevention (with a wide range of safer sex options according
to the specific person’s needs and lifestyle), monitor
psychological sequelae, adherence, and quality of life issues
(e.g., sleep, sexual functioning), and assist in managing the
psychosocial impact of the disease on infected people and
their relatives.
e:
dspecson@gmail.comPsychological effects of ARV drugs among MSM
Daryl Simon E. Pecson
San Beda University, Philippines