Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and may be contracted through exposure to bodily fluids including, but not limited to, blood and semen.

The virus attacks and destroys the body's infection fighting white blood cells. With a reduction in white blood cells, a carrier of HIV becomes more susceptible to various infections, one or more of which lead to eventual death. Several drug therapies are available to HIV positive individuals, and combinations of these drugs have been successful in slowing the progress of HIV.

Hemophiliacs, accident victims and others who received blood transfusions prior to the introduction of donor screening processes may be at risk of contracting AIDS. However, the risk of infection associated with blood transfusions has declined significantly over the past decade.

See Also

  1. Infections
  2. Albumin Buminate: Overview
  3. Blood Donation & Other Transplantation
  4. Factor VIII / Antihemophilic Factor (AHF)
  5. Inmate Abuse: Overview
  6. Jet Injector Shots: Overview
  7. Tattoos & Permanent Makeup (Micropigmentation)
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