Information on Teens Having HIV & Treatment

Health agencies are very concerned about HIV infection in young people. In 2004, 13 percent of individuals given an HIV or AIDS diagnosis were between the ages of 13 and 24. However, research suggests that HIV infection develops into AIDS more slowly among this age group than in others (CDC).

Transmission

• Most HIV/AIDS cases in young people result from unprotected sexual activities with an infected partner. Other young people were infected at or soon after birth, and have been HIV-positive for more than a decade.

Treatment

• Young people who contract HIV sexually and receive their diagnosis in the early stages commonly go on medication called antiretrovirals, with the goal of keeping the HIV infection from developing into AIDS for as long as possible.

Individualized Treatment

• Young people who contracted HIV at birth or in early childhood may be given a personalized treatment plan as prescribed by their doctor.

Lifestyle Changes

• Young people must adhere to their medication regimens exactly as prescribed by their doctors. Eating a healthy diet, getting adequate rest and avoiding drug use can improve their quality of life. Emotional support is also an important component of treatment for youths.

Concerns

• The National Institutes of Health reports that minority adolescent populations are the most heavily impacted by HIV. Of the 2003 AIDS cases reported among those ages 13-19, 66 percent were African American and 21 percent were Hispanic.