Living with HIV: What You Should Know About Life Expectancy
HIV treatments today allow people with HIV to live almost as long as those without it. To have a long and healthy life, you need to get diagnosed and start treatment right away.
How Starting Treatment Helps You Live Longer
Since doctors began to use antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the 1990s, people with HIV have seen a big jump in how long they live. A 20-year-old who finds out they have HIV today and begins treatment soon can expect to live to their 70s. This is close to how long the average person lives, which is 77 years.
But if you wait to get treatment, your immune system can get weak. This can cause problems that might make you live a shorter life.
Tips to Live Longer and Healthier with HIV
- Start Treatment : Beginning ART as soon as possible improves your chances to stay healthy.
- Follow Your Treatment Plan: Regular visits to your doctor and taking your medication without fail are key.
- Stop Smoking: HIV patients who smoke can live up to 12 years less. Quitting smoking is one of the best ways to boost your health.
- Stay Away from Injectable Drugs: Using injectable drugs can raise health risks and make treatment harder, cutting down your lifespan.
How Delayed Treatment Affects You
If you start ART when your CD4 count is low (under 200), you might live up to eight years less. Treatment at an early stage helps you avoid serious health issues.
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Other Things That Can Affect How Long You Live
- Social and Economic Factors: Not having access to healthcare, being poor, and facing stigma can make it hard to get treatment and affect overall health.
- Race and Gender: Studies show women live longer with HIV compared to men. People of color might face extra hurdles in getting care.
- Genetics: Some people known as “elite controllers,” have a natural ability to keep HIV in check without treatment, which leads to a longer life span.
Taking Care of Your Health as You Get Older with HIV
As you get older with HIV, you might face higher chances of getting heart disease, diabetes, and weak bones. HIV can speed up aging, so it’s key to check your health often and deal with any new problems .
Finding HIV Later in Older Adults
Older adults often find out they have HIV when it’s more advanced, and their body’s defenses might already be weak. Even so, starting HIV drugs right away can help control the virus and stop more damage.
How Long Can You Live Without HIV Treatment?
Without HIV treatment, you won’t live as long:
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Getting the right support for a healthy life with HIV is essential. Staying committed to your treatment, attending regular check-ups, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly enhance your quality of life. If you encounter obstacles in accessing care, there are various resources available, including support programs and government assistance.
Conclusion
Thanks to early diagnosis and ongoing treatment, individuals with HIV can enjoy long and fulfilling lives. The crucial factors are initiating treatment promptly, adhering to your healthcare plan, and making positive lifestyle choices. With appropriate care and support, you can achieve a lifespan close to that of the general population.