A medical doctor, Dr Iyayi Osifo, has sparked interest in a rare genetic mutation that gives some individuals resistance to HIV infection.
Osifo spoke of this rare genetic mutation in a post he shared on social media on Tuesday.
Highlighting how it is possible for one to engage in unprotected sex with a HIV positive person without getting infected, Osifo explained that this happens with individuals who have the rare genetic mutation.
He claims that the genetic alteration impacts white blood cells’ CCR5 receptor, which serves as an entry point for HIV to infect people.
People who have this mutation, according to Osifo, do not express the CCR5 receptor, which makes it more difficult for HIV to infiltrate their cells.
In the video, he said that although this phenomena is more prevalent in Northern Europe, some African populations—particularly in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya—also exhibit this tendency, albeit less frequently.
All I want to do is sketch something. Although this gene is primarily found in Northern Europe, some studies have also discovered that it is present in some populations in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya, although not at significant frequencies, he said. People are unaware that some people have HIV resistance.
He underlined that although this genetic mutation offers natural protection against HIV, it is important to remember that it does not excuse careless behavior. He added that being aware of one’s HIV status and taking preventative action are still essential for preserving general health.
The good news, according to Osifo, is that people living with HIV can have normal lives because to contemporary antiretroviral therapy, which greatly improves results.
He stated that the key to controlling the virus and stopping its spread is early diagnosis and treatment.
Fortunately, if you have HIV, especially if you get it in your 30s or 40s, and you take your medicine as prescribed, you have a better chance of leading a normal life and dying from other causes than from HIV infection. He remarked, “I say this to remind you that knowing your HIV status is very important because early treatment leads to better outcomes.”
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