HIV Testing and You - The Importance of Being Responsible
By having a firm understanding of the HIV virus, you increase your chances of living a long and healthy life dramatically.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus, more commonly known as HIV, is a retrovirus that attacks the T-cells of the immune system.
If left unchecked, HIV usually leads to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, or AIDS.
Without treatment, AIDS is a fatal condition.
First identified in the eighties, HIV has been known by various other names, such as human T-lymphotropic virus-III, AIDS associated retrovirus and lymphadenopathy associated virus.
Once the virus enters the body, it takes over the T-cells, produces replications, and transports itself throughout the body.
Currently, there is not a cure for HIV.
Anyone can become infected with the virus, so it is vital to prevent transmission.
HIV is contracted through contact with bodily fluid, including blood, breast milk, semen and vaginal secretion of an infected person.
Saliva is not known to carry HIV; however, if wounds exist inside the mouth, the virus may be contracted via saliva.
Fortunately, it is possible to reduce or even eliminate your risk of contracting HIV.
People who do not have HIV must protect themselves, while those living with HIV must ensure they do not transmit the virus.
A number of studies have found that the consistent and correct use of condoms is highly effective in the prevention of HIV.
Research shows that the latex condom is the most effective technology available to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV, as well as other sexually transmitted diseases.
Having unprotected sexual intercourse one time does not guarantee you will get HIV, but it does put you at a much higher risk.
In addition, your chances of contracting the virus go up if you continue to have unprotected sex.
A recent study revealed that approximately 54% of college students practice safe sex on a regular basis, so it is no surprise that one in four college students has a sexually transmitted disease.
If you have recently had unprotected sexual intercourse or you have practiced high-risk behaviour, you may have been exposed to HIV.
The only way to know for sure is with a test.
A negative result will set your mind at ease.
On the other hand, if you test HIV positive, several things can be done to help you cope and lead a longer, healthier life.
It is important to be aware of your HIV status.
HIV testing is an integral part of preventing and treating the virus.
In fact, modern developments in medical science have made it a possibility to self-test in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus, more commonly known as HIV, is a retrovirus that attacks the T-cells of the immune system.
If left unchecked, HIV usually leads to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, or AIDS.
Without treatment, AIDS is a fatal condition.
First identified in the eighties, HIV has been known by various other names, such as human T-lymphotropic virus-III, AIDS associated retrovirus and lymphadenopathy associated virus.
Once the virus enters the body, it takes over the T-cells, produces replications, and transports itself throughout the body.
Currently, there is not a cure for HIV.
Anyone can become infected with the virus, so it is vital to prevent transmission.
HIV is contracted through contact with bodily fluid, including blood, breast milk, semen and vaginal secretion of an infected person.
Saliva is not known to carry HIV; however, if wounds exist inside the mouth, the virus may be contracted via saliva.
Fortunately, it is possible to reduce or even eliminate your risk of contracting HIV.
People who do not have HIV must protect themselves, while those living with HIV must ensure they do not transmit the virus.
A number of studies have found that the consistent and correct use of condoms is highly effective in the prevention of HIV.
Research shows that the latex condom is the most effective technology available to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted HIV, as well as other sexually transmitted diseases.
Having unprotected sexual intercourse one time does not guarantee you will get HIV, but it does put you at a much higher risk.
In addition, your chances of contracting the virus go up if you continue to have unprotected sex.
A recent study revealed that approximately 54% of college students practice safe sex on a regular basis, so it is no surprise that one in four college students has a sexually transmitted disease.
If you have recently had unprotected sexual intercourse or you have practiced high-risk behaviour, you may have been exposed to HIV.
The only way to know for sure is with a test.
A negative result will set your mind at ease.
On the other hand, if you test HIV positive, several things can be done to help you cope and lead a longer, healthier life.
It is important to be aware of your HIV status.
HIV testing is an integral part of preventing and treating the virus.
In fact, modern developments in medical science have made it a possibility to self-test in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
