Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that affects the body's immune system, particularly CD4 cells that help the body fight infections. Without appropriate treatment, HIV can gradually weaken the immune system and may progress to AIDS, the most advanced stage of HIV infection.
Today, HIV can be effectively managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART). With timely diagnosis, regular treatment and appropriate medical care, people living with HIV can lead healthy and active lives.
For individuals looking for confidential HIV testing, treatment and medical guidance, consultation with an experienced HIV medicine specialist can help with diagnosis, treatment planning and long-term care.
What Is HIV?
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It attacks cells of the immune system, especially CD4 cells. As HIV progresses without treatment, the immune system can become weaker, increasing the risk of infections and certain cancers.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) refers to the most advanced stage of HIV infection. With modern HIV treatment, many people diagnosed with HIV do not progress to AIDS.
How Is HIV Transmitted?
HIV can be transmitted when certain infected body fluids come into contact with another person's bloodstream or mucous membranes.
Common routes of HIV transmission include:
Unprotected vaginal or anal sex
Sharing contaminated needles or syringes
Transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding
Exposure to infected blood
Certain unsafe medical procedures involving contaminated equipment
HIV is not spread through ordinary social contact such as hugging, shaking hands, sharing food or drinking water, or sitting together.
Why Is HIV Treatment Adherence Important?
Taking ART regularly is an important part of successful HIV management.
Good adherence helps:
Suppress HIV viral load
Protect the immune system
Reduce the risk of HIV-related infections
Reduce the risk of developing drug resistance
Support long-term health
Reduce the risk of sexual transmission when viral suppression is achieved
Regular medical follow-up and viral-load monitoring help healthcare professionals assess treatment effectiveness.
HIV and Other Infections
People living with HIV may have an increased risk of certain infections, particularly when the immune system is significantly weakened.
These may include:
Tuberculosis (TB)
Certain fungal infections
Severe bacterial infections
Some cancers
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C
Appropriate HIV treatment, vaccination where indicated, screening and management of other health conditions are important components of comprehensive HIV care.
Today, HIV can be effectively managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART). With timely diagnosis, regular treatment and appropriate medical care, people living with HIV can lead healthy and active lives.
For individuals looking for confidential HIV testing, treatment and medical guidance, consultation with an experienced HIV medicine specialist can help with diagnosis, treatment planning and long-term care.
What Is HIV?
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It attacks cells of the immune system, especially CD4 cells. As HIV progresses without treatment, the immune system can become weaker, increasing the risk of infections and certain cancers.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) refers to the most advanced stage of HIV infection. With modern HIV treatment, many people diagnosed with HIV do not progress to AIDS.
How Is HIV Transmitted?
HIV can be transmitted when certain infected body fluids come into contact with another person's bloodstream or mucous membranes.
Common routes of HIV transmission include:
Unprotected vaginal or anal sex
Sharing contaminated needles or syringes
Transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding
Exposure to infected blood
Certain unsafe medical procedures involving contaminated equipment
HIV is not spread through ordinary social contact such as hugging, shaking hands, sharing food or drinking water, or sitting together.
Why Is HIV Treatment Adherence Important?
Taking ART regularly is an important part of successful HIV management.
Good adherence helps:
Suppress HIV viral load
Protect the immune system
Reduce the risk of HIV-related infections
Reduce the risk of developing drug resistance
Support long-term health
Reduce the risk of sexual transmission when viral suppression is achieved
Regular medical follow-up and viral-load monitoring help healthcare professionals assess treatment effectiveness.
HIV and Other Infections
People living with HIV may have an increased risk of certain infections, particularly when the immune system is significantly weakened.
These may include:
Tuberculosis (TB)
Certain fungal infections
Severe bacterial infections
Some cancers
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C
Appropriate HIV treatment, vaccination where indicated, screening and management of other health conditions are important components of comprehensive HIV care.
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