AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. To properly understand AIDS, it’s crucial to first understand HIV, the virus that leads to it. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. Specifically, HIV targets CD4 cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a vital role in fighting off infections. When HIV damages these cells, it becomes harder for the body to combat diseases and infections.
Microscopic image of HIV virus attacking immune cells
HIV: The Path to AIDS
HIV is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids from an infected person, most commonly via unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles for drug injection, and from mother to child during birth or breastfeeding. Without treatment, HIV progressively weakens the immune system over time. However, it’s important to know that HIV is not a death sentence. Effective HIV treatment, known as antiretroviral therapy (ART), can significantly slow down the progression of the virus.
ART works by reducing the amount of HIV in the body, known as the viral load. For many individuals on consistent ART, the viral load can become so low that it’s undetectable by standard tests. This state of “undetectable = untransmittable” (U=U) means that a person with HIV who achieves and maintains an undetectable viral load cannot sexually transmit HIV to their HIV-negative partners. Furthermore, ART allows people with HIV to live long and healthy lives.
AIDS: Defining the Advanced Stage
AIDS is diagnosed when HIV has severely damaged the immune system. This damage is defined by specific criteria:
- Low CD4 Cell Count: A person is diagnosed with AIDS if their CD4 cell count falls below 200 cells per cubic millimeter of blood (cells/mm3). A healthy immune system typically has a CD4 count between 500 and 1,600 cells/mm3.
- Opportunistic Infections: Regardless of CD4 count, the development of certain opportunistic infections can also indicate AIDS. These infections are termed “opportunistic” because they take advantage of weakened immune systems. Examples include Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), Kaposi’s sarcoma, and certain types of candidiasis.
It’s important to emphasize that with access to and adherence to HIV medication, most people with HIV in developed countries do not progress to AIDS. ART effectively prevents the immune system damage that defines AIDS.
Recognizing HIV and Preventing AIDS Progression
The only definitive way to determine if you have HIV is through testing. HIV testing is readily available through healthcare providers, clinics, hospitals, and community health centers. Home HIV self-test kits are also an option, offering convenience and privacy. Early detection of HIV is critical because it allows individuals to start ART sooner, preventing the progression to AIDS and enabling them to live healthy lives.
If you test positive for HIV, immediate access to care and treatment is essential. If you test negative, you have the information needed to make informed decisions about HIV prevention. Effective prevention strategies include:
- Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): For individuals at high risk of HIV, PrEP is a daily medication that can significantly reduce the risk of acquiring HIV.
- Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): If you believe you have been exposed to HIV (e.g., through unprotected sex or needle sharing), PEP is emergency medication taken within 72 hours of exposure that can prevent HIV infection.
- Consistent condom use during sexual activity.
- Using clean needles for drug injection.
Conclusion: Taking Control of HIV and AIDS
AIDS is the advanced stage of HIV infection, a condition that develops when HIV has severely compromised the immune system. However, with the advancements in HIV treatment, AIDS is preventable. Understanding what AIDS is, how HIV leads to it, and the importance of testing and treatment is crucial. By getting tested, starting treatment if positive, and utilizing prevention strategies, individuals can take control of their health, prevent HIV transmission, and live long and healthy lives, even with HIV. If you have any concerns about HIV or AIDS, or to find testing locations, consult healthcare resources and testing locators available online.
