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The BBV/STI Glossary is a resource for interpreters, translators and others who work in a health setting. It offers an extensive list of English terms related to sexual health and blood-borne viruses (such as hepatitis), with easy to understand definitions.
This is a joint project of the following individuals and agencies:
- Suzanne Lau-Gooey
- Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators (AUSIT)
- Multicultural Health & Support Service
- Hepatitis C Victoria
- St Vincent’s Health
- HIV CALD Service – Alfred Health
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society
- Melbourne Health Resourcing Health and Education in the
Sex Industry (RhED)
BBV/STI Glossary Example
Glossary : A
Abnormality
A finding that something (a test, a sign or symptom) is not within the normal range.
Abortion
A procedure to end a pregnancy.
Abstinence
To stop or avoid – voluntary restraint from an activity, e.g. sex, alcohol or drugs.
Acute infection
Recent or early infection, as opposed to chronic (long-term) infection.
Adolescence
A stage of change and development in a young person’s life, which occurs between the onset of puberty and adulthood. Sometimes called ‘teenage years’.
AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
Elevated levels in the blood can indicate cirrhosis or liver cancer (HCC). Used for screening for HCC.
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome)
The last stage of HIV infection, when a group of illnesses occur because HIV has severely weakened the immune system.
Alcohol dependence
The state of depending on or needing alcohol to avoid symptoms of withdrawal.
ALT (Alanine aminotransferase)
An enzyme produced by the liver that can indicate ongoing liver damage.
Amphetamine
An illegal stimulant drug.
Anaemia
A decrease in haemoglobin (in red blood cells) that can cause various symptoms including tiredness and breathlessness.
Last reviewed: Dec 2015
Resource Type: Tip/Fact Sheets