Does HIV have to cause AIDS?

Not necessarily. With proper medical care and treatment, it is possible for people living with HIV to manage their condition and prevent it from progressing to AIDS. Medications called antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively suppress the virus, reducing the amount of HIV in the body and preventing it from damaging the immune system. By adhering to ART and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, individuals with HIV can achieve long-term control of the virus and live full and healthy lives.