HIV – World Update Epidemiology, Transmission and Introduction to HAART

Almost 28 years since the first reports of what soon became known as the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS] and 26 years since the identification of its cause, LAV, subsequently called the human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], the pandemic continues to grow, slowed somewhat by prevention, sophisticated diagnostics and multiple treatment approaches. We have gained many insights into the zoonotic origin of HIV, its transmission, host responses contributing to resistance, pathogenic effects on the host, sites and nature of latent infection, viral treatment targets and responses to therapeutic agents. The demographics of the 33 million living affected people vary dramatically by location, as does the extent of antiretroviral therapy [ART] availability. ART has been tremendously effective in prolonging life, improving quality of life and reducing mortality. Behavioral prevention approaches, combined with early diagnosis, measures such as male circumcision and widespread availability of monitored therapy are key to emerging hope for stemming the tide until, hopefully and perhaps optimistically, an effective vaccine becomes available.