Social Action for Lasting Transformation, Inc.

ARV adherence refers to the extent to which people living with HIV (PLHIV) follow the prescribed regimen of antiretroviral (ARV) medications. ARV adherence is crucial for PLHIV because it directly impacts their health outcomes and overall well-being. Here are some key points regarding the importance of ARV adherence for PLHIV: Viral Suppression: Consistent adherence to ARV medications is essential for achieving and maintaining viral suppression. When PLHIV adhere to their prescribed treatment regimen, the ARV drugs effectively suppress the replication of the HIV virus in their body. Viral suppression reduces the amount of HIV in the blood to undetectable levels, which in turn helps protect the immune system and prevents the progression of HIV disease. Improved Health: Adherence to ARV medications significantly improves the health and quality of life for PLHIV. Properly taking the prescribed drugs can slow down the progression of HIV, reduce the risk of opportunistic infections, and d...

Introduction: In the battle against HIV/AIDS, prevention has always been a crucial component. While there have been significant advancements in treatment and awareness over the years, one essential aspect that has emerged is the concept of HIV positive prevention. This proactive approach focuses on empowering individuals living with HIV to prevent transmission to others while also prioritizing their own health and well-being. By exploring the strategies and interventions within HIV positive prevention, we can understand the transformative impact it has on individuals, communities, and the broader fight against the epidemic. Redefining Self-care: HIV positive prevention recognizes that self-care and the pursuit of overall well-being are integral to living a healthy life with HIV. It encourages individuals to prioritize their own health by adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART), maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking regular medical check-ups. By actively managing their health, i...

If a person receives a positive result on an HIV test, it means that they have been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Here are the general steps that may follow after receiving a positive HIV test result: 1. Confirmatory Testing: In most cases, a second test is performed to confirm the initial positive result. This is typically done using a different testing method, such as Western blot or an HIV nucleic acid test (NAT). Confirmatory testing helps reduce the chances of a false positive result. 2. Medical Evaluation and Counseling: The individual is referred to a healthcare professional, usually an infectious disease specialist or an HIV specialist, who will conduct a thorough medical evaluation. They will assess the person's overall health, order additional tests, and discuss the implications of the HIV diagnosis. Counseling is an essential part of this process to provide emotional support, address concerns, and provide education about HIV transmission, treatmen...

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Activities hold a significant role as an annual global moment of remembrance, honoring those who have lost their lives due to AIDS-related infections. Moreover, it provides a platform to show support for people living with HIV (PLHIV), raise awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by affected individuals and communities, and promote preventive efforts. To visually represent solidarity and support during the AIDS Candlelight Memorial ceremonies, Social Action for Lasting Transformation (SALT) took the initiative to produce shirts. The design of the shirts incorporated this year's theme, "SPREAD LOVE AND SOLIDARITY TO BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY." Initially, SALT collected funds from its volunteers to produce the shirts. However, recognizing the importance of extending support to other local HIV frontliners in Davao City, SALT sought financial assistance from like-minded institutions. Father Dan Cancino stepped up to bridge th...

The PLHIV Support Group, also known as the People Living with HIV Support Group, is a community-based organization or network that provides support, information, and resources to individuals living with HIV (PLHIV). These support groups play a crucial role in helping PLHIV cope with the physical, emotional, and social challenges associated with HIV/AIDS. The primary purpose of a PLHIV Support Group is to create a safe and confidential space where people living with HIV can connect with others who share similar experiences. These groups typically consist of individuals who are HIV-positive, and they may also include partners, family members, and friends of PLHIV. The support groups can be facilitated by healthcare professionals, counselors, or trained peer facilitators who have personal experience with HIV. The PLHIV Support Group offers various forms of support, including: Emotional support: Members of the support group can share their feelings, experiences, and concerns related to liv...

  Here are some important facts about sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Prevalence: STIs are common worldwide, with millions of new cases reported each year. They can affect people of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations. Modes of Transmission: STIs are primarily transmitted through sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some STIs can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, sharing contaminated needles or syringes, and from an infected mother to her child during childbirth. Types of STIs: There are various types of STIs, including but not limited to: Chlamydia: A bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, throat, and rectum. Gonorrhea: Another bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A viral infection that can cause genital warts and increase the risk of certain cancers. Herpes: A viral infection that causes painful sores on the genitals or mouth. Syphilis: A bacterial infecti...

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells) that help the body fight off infections and diseases. When left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is the final stage of the infection. Here are some basic facts about HIV and AIDS: Transmission: HIV can be transmitted through the exchange of certain body fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common modes of transmission include unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing contaminated needles or syringes, and transmission from an HIV-positive mother to her child during childbirth, breastfeeding, or pregnancy. Symptoms: Many people with HIV may not experience any symptoms initially. However, some individuals may develop flu-like symptoms within a month or two after infection. These symptoms can include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, and rash. It's important to note that these sym...

Social Action for Lasting Transformation, Inc. is a non-stock and non-profit organization that aims to provide holistic support to people living with HIV in Davao Region.  We organize psycho-therapeutic sessions, learning group discussions, and peer-to-peer counseling that touches HIV disclosure. Also, we are big in assisting PLHIV in their emotional and spiritual strives.