Update on HIV/AIDS

By Jasmin Haley, RDH, BSDH, CDA

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant health problem around the world. However, notable advancements have been made in its prevention and treatment. Individuals living with HIV/acquired immuno­deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in the United States are living longer and healthier lives, but HIV remains a pandemic across the world.^1,2 There remains a need for an adequate continuum of care, improved access to health and dental care, reduction of stigma, and increased funding for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals with HIV/AIDS in the US and abroad.^1,2 Oral health professionals should keep abreast of advancements in HIV/AIDS and review prevention and education, including common opportunistic infections and oral manifestations, stages of HIV, modes of transmission, and infection control and management protocols.

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
Read Article