The Case For Testing
Proponents of universal HIV testing contend that the benefits of such a policy are many. The benefits of HIV testing include:
- Early detection of an HIV infection speeds access to HIV care. It has been proven that getting into HIV care early in the course of HIV dramatically improves prognosis.
Testing HIV Positive - Day 1 - Getting Into Care
- Knowing your status as a couple gives both of you peace of mind by eliminating worry over HIV status. This in turn keeps each partner healthy while enhancing intimacy.
The Challenges Faced By Serodiscordant Couples
- Whether you are HIV positive or negative, knowing your status allows you to make informed decisions regarding safer sex, relationship issues, and lifestyle choices.
The Case Against Testing
Opponents of universal HIV testing are quick to point out the downside of HIV testing. The cons of universal testing may not be as obvious as the benefits of testing but they do exist.
- Testing low risk populations waste time, HIV testing resources, and money.
- Testing needlessly jeopardizes confidentiality.
- Unnecessary HIV testing adds stress to the lives of low risk people.
- Testing those who don't feel they need to be tested infriges on their free will and their right to control their own medical care.
Where it Stands
Altimately the choice to be tested or not is an individual one. The benefits are obvious but the choice is yours.
We would love to hear your point of view. You can send it to us using our easy user submission form or join our free online HIV forum. Share your thoughts with our community here at About HIV/AIDS.
