HIV in Biotechnology
Ethical and Social: The Stigma
With HIV, the stigma it carries with it makes treating and working with the virus incredibly difficult. The negative views and prejudice that come bearing with HIV can be harmful. But what are they and how? Because HIV was widely misunderstood during the first outbreak in the 1980's, the public was afraid of it and the fear continues to affect people now. HIV in associated with death and usually other behaviors such as infidelity, drug use, and same sex couples. The results have concluded that at least one in eight people with HIV are denied health care services and limit their access to full medical treatments. The stigma restricts them from obtaining jobs and living their daily lives. This leads to further discrimination, difficulties to get assistance with low incomes, and even psychological problems. Possible HIV infected patients fear this, and do not seek help to help with their disease until it becomes AIDS.
Legal Issues: Funding
Funding for research requires a lot of government money and many do not agree with it. In fact, from 2014-2016, the U.S. government had spent over $27 billion in domestic response to HIV and to help with those infected. The government intends to save the 37 million individuals with HIV/AIDs around the world. There is much controversy with current vice-president using money from HIV funds towards LQBT conversion therapy.
Social, Ethical, and Legal Issues
Although HIV research many bring on advancements in curing other various diseases as well as curing the disease itself, there are many obstacles to achieve this.
