biological ecological perspective
In order to properly study HIV/AIDS from a Anthropological Perspective we must first consider one of six perspectives in this case the Biological/Ecological Approach. This approach takes into account a variety of tangible factors and applies them to the disease/illness in question. Factors like location, genetics, and race are key to understanding this perspective.
I found this video fascinating. The video allows you a comprehensive look at the biological/ecological factors involving the HIV/AIDS virus. It explains the biomedical background of the virus. I think it was very interesting how the scientists go into the origins of the Virus as being found in Africa and originating there. I think an important ecological link can be found right there. The highest frequency of AIDS is found in the same place where the Virus originated. I also think from a biological perspective it is important to note the interplay of the origin found within primates biologically an incredibly close relative to human beings. The video dives quite deeply into the immunological origins of the virus and the different responses. The strength of the immune response in different groups of people most likely plays a degree into how much each individual is infected.
I think it bears research into why some countries have higher amounts of HIV aids then other countries. In addition to the region in which AIDS perhaps money has some interplay on why there is a greater degree of AIDS in a country such as Botswana or South Africa verses the United States. The answer most likely has a large amount to do with wealth becoming a biological factor. Charles Gravlee in the American Journal of Physical Anthropology goes into detail on the factors arguing that race in North America may have a major affect on general health. I think this concept can be blanketed over a concept of global racial inequality leading to lower health standards. I'm certain that with higher financial status more Africans could be screened and educated for HIV lower the prevalence of the disease. By virtue of this argument I am saying quite simply that wealth and social status doesn't matter a little when it comes to the biological/Ecological approach, it matters a lot. The lecture video from week two also emphasis this point, as stated, biologically discrete races do not exist. If race isn't as important as thought then other key factor must be in play on the African Continent.
The second video emphasis my point on the prevalence of HIV noting that 25 million people in Africa are infected by HIV/AIDS. The AIDS epidemic is so deadly because of the ease of frequency and the lack of viable cures. Also note the narration (Pierce Bronson, 90's James Bond) very cool.
Bibliography
"HIV/AIDs in Africa, A Ten Minute Overview" YouTube video, 9.46, February 26, 2008, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mogTwwepces
"The Puzzle Of HIV," YouTube video, 51.57, Jan 22, 2013, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCZVYvKUQ2o
"HIV/AIDs in Africa, A Ten Minute Overview" YouTube video, 9.46, February 26, 2008, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mogTwwepces
"The Puzzle Of HIV," YouTube video, 51.57, Jan 22, 2013, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCZVYvKUQ2o