Microbicides: A New Frontier in HIV/AIDS Prevention

Abstract

Sexually transmitted diseases have long been a taboo subject among many cultures and creeds. Although the stigma surroudning these unfortunate illnesses arises from their sexual nature, sheer ignorance must be blamed for the way people perceive them. The idea of acquring the HIV virus and possibly developing AIDS has struck fear in the lives of the sexually activte, especially those individuals who cannot protect themselves-the poor, powerless women of our world. Though many structural barriers act to oppress these human beings, the lack of a vacicine for HIV/AIDS proves to be their greatest hardship. The current development of microbicides, however, gives them hope. Utilizing the latest research from experts in the area of HIV/AIDS, this essay attempts to inform our greater community of the ability of microbicides to combat both a physical and social disease that has plagued society for too long.