HIV/AIDS: Prevalence, Prevention, and Treatment

Course overview

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV can significantly depress immune system function, leading progressively to AIDS. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with HIV-1 infection and AIDS, enabling HIV-infected individuals to live longer and have an improved quality of life. Advancements in ART and increasing availability of prevention options, such as oral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and long-acting PrEP, have allowed many patients with HIV to achieve viral suppression. Nevertheless, HIV and AIDS are still serious health problems requiring federal and state resources.