Beyond AIDS Testing

The general population may not have a strong grasp of HIV/AIDS. That is, many may no be clear about how it can and cannot bee spread or if HIV is a separated disease from AIDS. To clarify, HIV, the human immunodeficiency virus, should be thought of as existing on a continuum. After four stages (primary, serconversion, asymptomatic, early-medium, and AIDS), with passage rates that vary from person-to- person, HIV can be classified as AIDS studies cannot accurately determine if everyone diagnosed with HIV will eventually develop AIDDS, but what is know is that untreated cases of HIV undoubtedly lead to AIDS.

The Basics

HIV and AIDS testing as a part of one’s healthcare regimen is a critical aspect of both personal and public safety. In 2006 an estimated 56,300 people were infected with HIV. Additionally, the CDC contends that about one million people in the United States are living with AIDS, one quarter of them not knowing they are infected.

HIV is found in the blood, semen, or vaginal fluid of an infected person and is transmitted through sexual intercourse, intravenous needle/syringe use, or for babies, being exposed during birth or from breast feeding. To reduce false perceptions it should be known that HIV is not transmitted through hand shaking, hugging, or a casual kiss. Disproving several myths, you cannot be infected from toilet seats, drinking fountains, doorknobs, dishes, food, pets, or mosquito bites

It takes the presence of antibodies in the immune system for accurate HIV/AIDS testing. There are many tests available to detect HIV but the standard test is an antibody test. HIV antibody tests are primarily used for routine testing of adults and are inexpensive and accurate. In the immune system, antibodies can develop anywhere between three months or as late as six months therefore, in the early acute phase a patient could be infected and receive negative antibody test results. Effective AIDS testing can occur in three or four weeks but for certainty most health care providers suggest testing at three months and again at six months

What if I am Positive?

At the beginning of the 1980s a positive HIV/AIDS diagnosis was considered a death sentence. Now, with regular medical care, antiretroviral therapy, positive, lifestyle, and strong emotional support, many can live productive lives upwards of twenty years. Positive life factors include being open and honest with future sexual partners about one’s status, abstaining from alcohol and drugs (especially intravenously), and multiple sexual partners. Quality of life might also increase when those infected participate in mutually monogamous relationships with "quality" mates, always including condoms and dental dams.

Often times, dealing with the social and emotional aspects of a positive status is more difficult than the physical ailments. After testing positive some might feel reluctant to disclose their status, fearing stigma and rejection. It is important for those who are positive to be surrounded by friends, family, and health care providers who are accepting and understanding. Many clinics, community centers, churches, and LGTB centers offer support services to help those living with HIV/AIDS.

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