HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, causing it to weaken and become susceptible to infections and disease. Over the years, HIV has become a global pandemic affecting millions of people around the world.

While both men and women can contract HIV, studies have shown that men are more vulnerable to the virus than women.

Biological factors

There are several biological factors to explain why men are more prone to HIV than women. Firstly, the male urethra is more vulnerable to damage during intercourse, which creates an entry point to the bloodstream for the virus.

Men are also more prone to genital ulcers and open sores, which increases the likelihood of HIV transmission.

Secondly, male hormones weaken the immune system. Testosterone, the primary male hormone, reduces the number and function of immune cells, making men more susceptible to HIV contraction.

Men with higher testosterone levels are also likely to engage in risky sexual behavior increasing their exposure to HIV.

The role of circumcision

Circumcision is known to provide some protection against HIV contraction. Scientific studies have shown that a circumcised male is less likely to contract HIV during heterosexual intercourse than an uncircumcised male.

This is because the foreskin is an area of the penis that is particularly vulnerable to HIV transmission. Circumcision eliminates this vulnerability, preventing HIV contraction. Thus, this gives men an added advantage against HIV contraction that women do not have.

Cultural norms and societal beliefs play a significant role in the spread of HIV. Gender norms and taboos surrounding sexual behavior can lead to the under-treatment of HIV in men.

Men are less likely to seek treatment for sexually transmitted infections than women. This is most likely because of the cultural stereotypes that view men as “tough” and resilient individuals, who should not be bothered by diseases such as HIV.

Teenage boys and young men also often become reckless in experimenting with drugs and risky sexual behavior. Drug use makes one more likely to contract sexually transmitted infections like HIV.

Conclusion

Although both men and women are susceptible to the HIV virus, the extent to which men are at risk and vulnerable is much higher.

Biological factors, including the structure of the male genital organs, and social factors, such as cultural stereotypes, play significant roles in explaining why men are more vulnerable to HIV. By increasing the awareness of these factors, steps can be taken to reduce the rate of HIV contraction among men, in addition to public health education about the importance of safe sex and regular HIV screening.