We, at Medicircle, are aiming to work on providing the right information about diseases and disorders for a healthy disease-free society. Under this initiative, we are speaking to eminent doctors of various expertise to give you authentic information.

Dr. Joseph Chettiar is a Sexologist and Homoeopath in Vasai, Thane, and has experience of 28 years in these fields. Dr. Joseph Chettiar practices at Family Healthcare Clinic in Vasai, Thane, and Holy Family Clinic in Vasai West, Thane. He completed BHMS from Shivaji University Kolhapur in 1994 and Certificate Course in STD/HIV Comprehensive from the University of South Florida in 2004.

He is a member of the Vasai Medical Association and Indian Medical Association (IMA).

The similarity between AIDS and HIV 

Dr.Joseph Chettiar informs, “HIV and AIDS are two different things. HIV is a virus which is called Human Immunodeficiency Virus. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome” is a disease caused by HIV virus. HIV is a virus that lives in our bodies. HIV virus reduces the immunity in our body and causes a number of symptoms called a syndrome. 

AIDS is STD 

Dr.Joseph Chettiar says, “AIDS and HIV are STD. HIV infection or AIDS is caused by three contacts - 

Heterosexual behavior  Mother to child transmission Infected needles and syringes. 

The first and most common transmission for HIV is heterosexual behavior, so it comes under STD. Also, mother-to-child transmission is not included in STDs. However, if the mother has been exposed to heterosexual behavior, then it is considered an STD. Infected needles and syringes used are generally seen in drug users. If needles and syringes are used without autoclaves, it can cause HIV transmission."

Treatment for AIDS 

Dr.Joseph Chettiar states, “AIDS treatment is possible. AIDS is considered a Chronic Manageable illness. 

Consider any chronic disease such as diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, these medicines are not curable and be controlled lifetime with medicines. Similarly, AIDS can be managed and controlled.”

AIDS is a deadly disease

Dr.Joseph Chettiar states, “AIDS is not deadly. AIDS was detected in 1986 in Chennai. And then it was detected in Mumbai. It's been 35 years now. There are patients living for more than 30 + years with HIV.So, it is deadly. We have multiple medicines along with scientific research going on for the same. It is not a deadly illness. You can lead a normal life with medicines. AIDS is deadly but precautions must be taken. You have to live with illness with long-term medicines. Take care and precautions to avoid infection with a deadly virus and deadly infection."

(Edited by Dr.Rati Parwani)