|  | Conditions Treatments | HIV AIDS

How Long Can One Live With AIDS?

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a condition resulting from destruction of the immune system by the HIV virus. Medical breakthroughs have increased the lifespan and quality of life in HIV-infected individuals from an average of 5 to 10 years (at the start of the epidemic) to over 20 years at present. Factors influencing the rate of progression of the disease include age, income, education levels and general health.

  1. Medical Care

    • With proper treatment, an HIV-infected person can live for more than 20 years. According to TheBody.com, lower-income populations are 89% more likely to die from AIDS than higher income groups with access to adequate medical care. The average incubation period of the HIV virus (without treatment) is between 9 and 11 years, making access to medical care vital in determining life expectancy.

    HIV Subtype

    • Viral subtype also contributes to overall prognosis in people with HIV. The two major strains include HIV-1 and HIV-2, each with its own subtypes. According to EHealthSource.com, those with a strain known as subtype D have on average a two to four year shorter life expectancy than those with subtype A, making viral strain a significant factor in long term prognosis.

    Comorbidity

    • Certain comorbid conditions can speed the rate of HIV's progression to AIDS and increase the likelihood of dying of an AIDS related complex. Viruses like human papillomavirus (HPV), Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus (KSHV) and the Epstein-Barr virus increase the risk of certain cancers in people with HIV and cause further stress to the immune system. The presence of other sexually transmitted diseases like herpes and syphilis also increase chances of transmitting HIV from person to person, so always practice safe sex and avoid high-risk behaviors.

    Patient Compliance

    • Because HIV medications require strict dosing schedules and can have unpleasant side effects, non-compliance is a significant problem. Failure to comply with dosing schedules can lead to treatment-resistant HIV, which is especially problematic due to the already limited number of treatment options. To ensure the efficacy of drug cocktails over time, adhere to dosing schedules as closely as possible.

    Lifestyle

    • General lifestyle factors like diet and exercise can play a significant role in the life expectancy of HIV/AIDS patients. Avoid using drugs and alcohol and having sex with multiple partners, as these activities weaken the immune system. Stress, poor diet and depression may also affect prognosis negatively while proper hygiene, adequate nutrition and a positive outlook increase both life expectancy and quality of life for those living with HIV/AIDS.

HIV AIDS - Related Articles