opinion
Strides being made in preventing and treating HIV
■ Connected coverage - selected articles on trends, challenges and controversies in the changing world of medicine.
Posted Aug. 20, 2012
It has been more than 30 years since physicians started seeing AIDS cases in the United States. There was little that could be done at first, but that has changed because of medical advancements that have improved care of HIV-positive patients.
American Medical News has covered the prevention of HIV and looked at how doctors are better equipped to help treat infected patients. Articles also have examined how patients are keeping the condition under control and detailed how high-risk patients can take a pill to avoid contracting HIV.
First pill to prevent HIV is only for some patients
The Food and Drug Administration in July approved Truvada, an antiretroviral medication to prevent the spread of HIV among high-risk patients. Although some health professionals applauded the action, they said the drug would not end the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and they encouraged doctors to continue emphasizing the importance of safe sex. Read more
Only 28% of HIV patients have condition under control
A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that some HIV patients are not keeping their condition in check. The agency has urged physicians to increase testing for HIV during medical visits to address the issue. Read more
HIV in primary care: Treating an aging epidemic
With HIV/AIDS patients living longer, much of their care has shifted from specialists to primary care physicians. These doctors are treating chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, that can develop among patients. An expected shortage of HIV/AIDS specialists also will send many patients to primary care doctors. Read more