What is HIV?
According to UNAIDS , HIV — the human immunodeficiency virus — is a virus that attacks the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness that puts people at risk of developing life-threatening diseases like cancer and pneumonia.
Unless treated, HIV can develop into AIDS—acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. It often takes more than 10 years for HIV to progress to AIDS, and there is no cure or vaccine.
Since 1981, more than 25 million people have died of AIDS, and at the end of 2008, 50 percent of all adults living with HIV worldwide were women .
Ways you can become infected with HIV
In order to be infected with HIV, the virus must enter a person's bloodstream.
Modes of transmission include:
- Unprotected sex
- Sharing needles
- Unsterilized needles
- Pregnancy
The Department of Infectious Diseases in the Public Health Agency of Canada advises people to ask themselves the following questions to see if they're at risk of developing HIV:
- Have you ever had unprotected sexual intercourse ?
- Have you ever shared needles or equipment for injecting drugs?
- Have you ever used unsterilized needles for tattooing, skin piercing or acupuncture?
- Have you ever experienced occupational exposure to HIV in a health care setting?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, see your doctor immediately and ask for an HIV/AIDS blood test.
Are you at risk for HIV and AIDS?
HIV and AIDS can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or socio-economic status. However, stigma, discrimination and violation of civil and human rights make socially and economically marginalized groups and populations even more vulnerable to infection.
High-risk groups for HIV and AIDS:
- Gay men
- Drug users
- Aboriginal people
- Prison inmates
- Youth
- Women
- People from countries where HIV is endemic
- People living with HIV
Up next: Ways to reduce your risk of HIV and AIDS >>
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Reduce your risk of HIV and AIDS
Here are several ways to reduce your risk of HIV infection and developing AIDS.
Always use condoms
Although no form of protection is 100 percent effective in preventing the spread of HIV, wearing a condom during vaginal, anal or oral sex goes a long way. To prevent condom breakage, consider using a water-based lubricant.
Watch the needles
Never share needles or other drug equipment. When getting a tattoo or piercing, ensure the equipment being used is sterilized.
Take precautions
If you work in a health care facility or may be exposed to the virus because of the work you do, take precautions — like wearing gloves and handling needles with care — to protect yourself.
Get tested
One of the easiest ways to reduce your risk is to take control of your health and to speak with your doctor about your sexual history. An HIV/AIDS blood test let you know whether you're "clean" .
Stay educated
Research information on the internet from reputable and/or government-originated HIV/AIDS organizations about the virus and how you can prevent it.
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Note
NoteIf you're pregnant and may have the virus, speak with your doctor and get tested. Several drugs can now be taken during pregnancy to prevent transmission from mother to fetus. Ask your doctor about these and other options.
Get involved
Join campaigns, like the one recently launched by LifeStyles Condoms, to spread the word about HIV transmission and protection. Check their campaign out on Facebook and Twitter.
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