Both on a global level and in your own community, raising AIDS awareness lifts the veil of mystery and ignorance from a disease that can be prevented. All people have to do is be willing to learn about HIV. If that happens, prevention is a natural next step. The resources assembled here are perfect places to start.
The Biology of HIV
The first step to truly understanding HIV and AIDS is knowing what HIV is all about. In my practice, when I speak with newly diagnosed people, the first thing I cover is what we in the HIV field call "HIV 101." We start at the beginning, forming a strong foundation of understanding, much like building a house. The strength of a house is only as good as the strength of the foundation. The same holds true for your understanding of HIV. The following resources will help you build a strong foundation of HIV understanding.
Testing for HIV
Knowing your status is a great way to keep you and your partner safe. If you are HIV-positive, testing allows you to get into the medical care you need to stay healthy. But there is a great deal of anxiety associated with HIV testing. Easing that anxiety is a matter of understanding HIV testing and the results that you receive. The following resources help you better understand HIV testing and the results that testing generates.
The Symptoms of HIV
The most common questions I get as the HIV Guide here at About.com are all related to the symptoms of HIV. People want to know what symptoms may or may not be HIV related. The truth of the matter is that while there are symptoms common to HIV, many HIV-infected people show no initial signs of HIV at all. However, there are some people that experience signs and symptoms of HIV after being infected. The following resources will help you identify those signs and symptoms you should be concerned about.
Treating HIV and AIDS
The advent of HIV medications and medications to treat the infections common to HIV has meant longer and healthier lives for those living with the virus. While years of research and data has proven that HIV medications are very effective, we also have found that for HIV medications to be most effective, they have to be taken each and every day exactly as prescribed. Sticking to your prescribed regimen, or medication adherence as it is referred to, is essential if your medication regimen is to work. The following resources will educate you about your HIV medications and offer you tips on how to take them each day without fail.
Living Day-to-Day with HIV
It all comes down to living each day with your HIV infection. What I have learned during my years of caring for HIV-infected people is that HIV impacts every aspect of your life. With the right resources and the right frame of mind, your life can be long, happy, healthy, and fulfilling despite your HIV infection. The following resources will help you adjust to HIV and will give you the knowledge you need to live with HIV and not have HIV derail your life.
