Is HIV a public health threat?
HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is one of the world’s most serious public health challenges. But there is a global commitment to stopping new HIV infections and ensuring that everyone with HIV has access to HIV treatment.
What are the impact and effect of HIV as it relates to public health?
HIV/AIDS contributes to increases in health expenditures in both the public and private sectors and may divert re- sources towards the higher levels of care needed for AIDS patients. The added strains on public health fi- nances, staff and other resources may force more people to seek private health care.
Why is HIV a global health concern?
Having a high rate of HIV and AIDS can present serious social and economic challenges for communities in developing countries. People debilitated by HIV and AIDS may be unable to do their daily work, including growing food to meet their nutritional needs or earning income to support their families.
Are people with HIV at risk for other diseases?
The same behaviors that put people at risk for HIV can also put them at risk for other health problems. This means that people living with HIV re also more likely to have hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and other infections that can be transmitted sexually or by injection drug use.
What is the prevalence of HIV in the US?
HIV infections in the United States continue to be a major public health crisis. An estimated 1.2 million Americans are living with HIV, and 1 out of 8 people with HIV do not know they have it.
What is happening to HIV in the United States?
Deaths from HIV infection have greatly declined in the United States since the 1990s. As the number of people living with HIV grows, it will be more important than ever to increase national HIV prevention and health care programs. There are gender, race, and ethnicity disparities in new HIV diagnoses.
Are there any pre-existing conditions that can affect HIV treatment?
Sometimes people living with HIV have pre-existing conditions that may have contributed to their risk for HIV infection. These conditions can sometimes complicate HIV treatment if not addressed. Among these conditions are mental health issues, alcohol use, and drug use.