By:
• Meng Seavmey

• September 17, 2024 , 5:15 PM

PHNOM PENH – For decades, HIV was a terrifying diagnosis in Cambodia. But thanks to advancements in medical treatment, people living with HIV (PLHIV) can now enjoy long, healthy lives.

With consistent treatment and medication, PLHIV can effectively manage their condition and reduce the viral load in their blood to undetectable levels. This means they can live a normal life, including getting married and starting a family.

As Dr. Reth Bora, a urologist, explains, "HIV is no longer the deadly disease it once was. Regular checkups and medication for a few months can significantly reduce the virus's presence in the body.”

“This viral suppression ensures that the virus cannot be transmitted to others,” he added.

“This condition is called U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable), meaning that the virus cannot be transmitted when it is undetectable,” said Dr. Bora.

In July, the National Aids Authority showed that new HIV infections had decreased from 1,300 cases in 2022 to 1,200 cases in 2023, while infection from mothers to babies fell from 11 to 8 percent.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) HIV is a virus that compromises the body's immune system. When the infection progresses to its most advanced stage, it can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (Aids), a condition characterized by severe immune system impairment, adds the WHO.

HIV is transmitted through three main ways: sex; a mother to her baby; and exposure to blood, which can happen through transfusion or drug injection. It is not spread by holding hands, hugging, kissing or eating from the same plate, or using the same bathroom as people living with HIV. 

Women who are aware of their HIV status are urged to seek treatment as soon as possible when they learn about their pregnancy. This aims to cease transmission on time. 

According to Dr. Bora, the prevention is effective if pregnant women comply to the treatment and medications.  

The Case for ARTs

People living with HIV can significantly improve their quality of life and longevity through antiretroviral therapy (ART). This treatment involves taking a combination of HIV medications daily. ART is recommended for everyone with HIV, regardless of their stage of infection.

While ART cannot cure HIV, it can effectively suppress the virus, preventing it from replicating and damaging the immune system. This allows people with HIV to live longer, healthier lives.

Despite the effectiveness of ART, stigma and discrimination against PLHIV remain significant challenges. However, stakeholders and the media are working to raise awareness and combat these prejudices.

Dr. Bora emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

“ART is highly effective in preventing HIV transmission," he explained. "When people with HIV are aware of their status and receive timely treatment, the risk of passing the virus on to others is virtually eliminated."

Even after achieving viral suppression, Dr. Bora recommended using condoms as an extra layer of protection. "Condoms are a reliable way to prevent both HIV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections," he said.

Dr. Bora recommends avoiding physical contact with others' wounds to minimize the risk of blood-to-blood transmission.

“This is particularly important if you have any doubts about the effectiveness of your treatment,” he said.

“If you have concerns about your HIV status or treatment, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance and address any questions you may have,” added the urologist. 

UNAIDS 95-95-95 Targets

Cambodia is making significant strides in its efforts to combat HIV/Aids. The country is on track to meet the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, which aim to ensure that 95 percent of people living with HIV know their status, 95 percent of those diagnosed are on ART, and 95 percent of those on ART have suppressed viral loads.

To eliminate HIV, Cambodia has outlined a three-phase plan: preventing new infections, providing care and treatment for people living with HIV, and ensuring that everyone with HIV is diagnosed and receives effective treatment.

While Cambodia has achieved impressive progress, with 89 to 98 percent of PLHIV meeting the 95-95-95 targets, the country is still working to increase awareness of HIV testing. In 2023, only 89 percent of people knew their HIV status, up from 86 percent in 2022.

Starting HIV medication can be daunting for newly diagnosed individuals, said Dr. Bora. 

“Many people experience stress and anxiety when they first begin treatment,” he added.

However, over time, taking medication becomes a routine part of daily life, said the urologist, allaying fears. “As people learn more about HIV and its treatment, the initial anxiety often subsides.”

Dr. Bora emphasizes that while HIV medication is not a lifetime commitment, it does require consistent use for an extended period.

“Although this may seem challenging at first, it's important to remember that medication is essential for managing HIV and preventing complications,” he said. “By adhering to their treatment plan and maintaining a positive outlook, people with HIV can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of serious health issues.