HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, making it harder to fight off infections and diseases. If left untreated, HIV1 can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). 2 While HIV remains a serious health condition, advancements in treatment and prevention have transformed it from a life-threatening illness to a manageable chronic condition.
This blog aims to provide information and support for people living with HIV, focusing on treatment options, prevention strategies, and the importance of reducing stigma.
Advancements in HIV Treatment
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the cornerstone of HIV treatment. ART involves taking a combination of medications that work to suppress the virus, prevent it from damaging the immune system, and reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to others.
Key benefits of ART include:
- Viral Suppression: ART can reduce the amount of HIV in the blood to undetectable levels, meaning the virus is effectively controlled and cannot be transmitted sexually (Undetectable = Untransmittable or U=U).
- Improved Immune Function: ART helps restore and maintain the immune system, reducing the risk of opportunistic infections and improving overall health.
- Increased Life Expectancy: People living with HIV who receive effective ART can have a near-normal life expectancy.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing new HIV infections is crucial. Here are key prevention strategies:
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): A daily pill that can significantly reduce the risk of contracting HIV for people who are at high risk.
- Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): Medication taken after a potential exposure to HIV to prevent infection. PEP must be started within 72 hours of exposure.
- Condom use: Consistent and correct condom use during sex can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
- Testing and early treatment: Regular HIV testing is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, which can help prevent transmission to others.
Reducing Stigma
Stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV remain significant challenges. These negative attitudes can prevent people from getting tested, accessing treatment, and disclosing their status to others.
Here’s how we can all contribute to reducing HIV stigma:
- Education: Increase understanding about HIV transmission and treatment.
- Open Communication: Encourage open and honest conversations about HIV.
- Challenge Misconceptions: Address myths and stereotypes about HIV.
- Support People Living with HIV: Show compassion and understanding to those affected by HIV.
Living Well with HIV
Living with HIV requires ongoing care and management, but with the right support and treatment, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives.
Remember:
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
- Adherence to ART is essential for viral suppression and preventing transmission.
- Support is available. Connect with healthcare providers, support groups, and community organizations for guidance and assistance.
Additional Resources:
- World Health Organization (WHO) – HIV: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hiv-aids
- UNAIDS: https://www.unaids.org/
By working together to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and promote prevention and treatment, we can move towards ending the HIV epidemic.
Dr. Kre Johnson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician and the sole owner of Brownstone Healthcare and Aesthetics. She is the Medical Director of the City of Birmingham’s Employee Health Clinic-Brownstone BWell Birmingham. She is the Event Producer of Wifeology and the founder of Three Twenty Girls, Inc. She loves God, traveling, and all things Southern!!
Brownstone BWell: Brownstone Healthcare has partnered with the City of Birmingham to offer primary care services to the employees of the City of Birmingham for $0 copayment. This partnership is for preventative services & screenings and sick visits. We partner with your current primary care physician and our goal is to keep you out of the ER and urgent care. We do not share your information with the City of Birmingham. We uphold HIPPA and professional standards. You can visit us at our downtown location 1700 5th Ave N Birmingham, AL 35203 or Trussville: 4643 Camp Coleman Road #117 Trussville, AL 35173 205-202-5650 call for your appointment today.
