HIV DEFINITION

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is one of the world’s most fatal diseases.

AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. HIV acts by gradually destroying the body’s white blood cells (CD4 cells and T-cells). These cells help the body to fight infection. A person with HIV will therefore have a suppressed immune system, making them more prone to opportunistic infections (infections that cause little harm in a healthy person but may be fatal to someone infected with HIV).

Extensive research and testing means that the outlook for someone diagnosed with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) in the developed world is significantly better than it was 10 years ago. Current treatment prevents virus replication and allows someone infected with HIV to live a longer and healthier life.

Unfortunately, the prejudice and ignorance that surrounds the disease has been more difficult to treat.