HIV-AIDS: Prevalence, Etiology, and Prevention

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. Prior to the development of antiretroviral medications, essentially everyone infected with HIV progressed to developing AIDS, leading to the development of opportunistic infections and/or neoplasms. The introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with HIV-1 infection and AIDS, and it has enabled HIV-infected individuals to live longer and have an improved quality of life. Nevertheless, HIV and AIDS are still serious health problems that continue to require federal and state resources. This course provides a general discussion on the transmission, progression, and a brief overview of the treatment of HIV and AIDS and also includes relevant case studies.