Is HIV Threatening Your Massive Goals?

Almost all teens and adults have dreams and goals that will be the pinnacle of success. Some hope to become athletes and entrepreneurs or make breakthroughs. Others simply want to do good work, get promotions, travel, or raise families. Whatever the goal, the threat of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) should not be overlooked. Despite the strides in HIV prevention and ending the HIV epidemic, many young adults are still at risk. Contracting this virus can physically and mentally interrupt the daily grind necessary for achieving goals.

Are you at risk of an HIV infection?

HIV is still primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact. With some practices, such as unprotected sex with multiple partners or anal sex, the risk is significantly higher. Men who have sex with men (MSM), for instance, should be aware of this risk. Young people enjoying liberating lives and experiences while experimenting with sex can contract HIV. People who inject drugs (PWID) or share needles can transmit the disease. These risks will continue to exist as long as HIV exists. Staying healthy through positive practices should be a priority.

Staying healthy with regular checkups

HIV testing is the best way to know one’s status and stay healthy. Even the busiest of go-getters should consider yearly testing. Rapid tests can be done privately at home, giving results in less than an hour. Blood tests provide more detailed information. Consider HIV testing during annual wellness visits or other checkups. People with a higher risk of contracting the disease should test more regularly. If testing reveals a positive HIV diagnosis, early intervention with antiretroviral therapy (ART) can allow positive individuals to lead healthier lives.

Protect yourself with PrEP

If the risk of HIV infection is particularly high, taking some precautions beforehand can help. Additional steps allow individuals to pursue goals and achievements while staying healthy. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective way to limit the risk of HIV infection. The antiretroviral drug prevents HIV from spreading throughout the body. PrEP can be taken daily or via a long-lasting injection. Some people may benefit from daily use or on-demand the day before any high-risk behavior. When taken as prescribed, PrEP has almost 99% effectiveness against HIV from sex. PrEP is becoming more accessible through doctors, medical providers, and HIV advocacy programs.

Are your dreams over with HIV?

A positive HIV diagnosis does not mean the end of one’s dreams. Great physical and mental health is still possible. A doctor will guide HIV+ individuals with ART and lifestyle changes. Regular medical checks and testing are necessary to adjust treatment as needed. A healthy diet and exercise can help to manage the stress and anxiety that comes with being HIV positive. In many cases, proper treatment can make the disease undetectable and thereby untransmittable, so dreams and goals can go on. This diagnosis is also a great opportunity to become an advocate, sharing knowledge with friends and loved ones. HIV advocacy goes a long way in preventing the stigma that comes with the disease.

You can stay safe and level up

Achieving goals and building a fulfilling life can take time. The ups and downs of daily life are what make dreams worldwide. At the same time, health should be a priority, as a healthy body and mind are necessary for success. HIV infection is still a threat. People unaware of the dangers can get infected despite improved infection rates. Doctors recommend yearly testing, with more frequent tests for those involved in higher-risk behaviors. With testing, PrEP, and other healthy habits, the grind goes on.