HIV/AIDS in the United States

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HIV/AIDS in the United States

HIV/AIDS in the United States refers to the occurrence and management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) within the United States of America.

Pronunciation

  • HIV: /ˌeɪtʃ aɪ ˈviː/
  • AIDS: /ˈeɪdz/

Etymology

The term "HIV" is an acronym for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which refers to the virus that causes AIDS. "AIDS" stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, describing the collection of symptoms and infections associated with the acquired impairment of the immune system.

Definition

HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, which help the immune system fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells in the body, making the person more likely to get infections or infection-related cancers. Over time, HIV can lead to AIDS, the most severe phase of HIV infection.

History

The first cases of what would later be known as AIDS were reported in the United States in June 1981. Since then, 1.2 million people in the U.S. are estimated to be living with HIV today. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 14% of these individuals are unaware of their infection.

Related Terms

  • Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): The use of HIV medicines to treat HIV infection.
  • Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): A way for people who do not have HIV but who are at substantial risk of getting it to prevent HIV infection by taking a pill every day.
  • Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): A method to prevent HIV infection after a recent possible exposure to the virus.

See Also

External links

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