HIV/AIDS: men

AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. It is a disease caused by a virus. This virus is called HIV, which stands for human immunodeficiency virus. HIV is contagious, but not nearly as much as a cold or the flu. HIV is spread through direct intimate contact with body fluids, such as blood, vaginal secretions, or semen. Certain other body fluids, like the fluid around the spinal cord and brain, can also carry HIV. However, HIV is not spread by saliva or spit. It is also not spread by sweat or tears.

HIV is passed to others by:

• direct intimate contact with HIV-infected body fluids, such as blood, vaginal secretions, or semen
• having oral sex with an HIV-positive partner
• an HIV-infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding
• having sexual intercourse without a latex or plastic condom with an HIV-positive partner and
• HIV-contaminated needles from drug use, tattoos, or body piercing

Most people infected with HIV eventually develop AIDS. When people develop AIDS, their immune system is slowly destroyed. Some people live with HIV for many years before developing AIDS. In others, AIDS occurs very quickly. At the present time, experts believe that everyone who develops AIDS will eventually die from complications of the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment may add many years to the patient's life.

Many people think that HIV and AIDS are problems about which only gay men need to worry. However, the most common way HIV is now spread is through heterosexual sex between a man and a woman. HIV is spreading among both gay and straight men in the United States. Age is not a protection though; elderly men can get HIV too.

Many men say that they do not want to be tested to see if they have HIV because they think nothing can be done if it is positive. However, there are many new treatments for HIV and AIDS these days.

If you are sexually active with men, women, or both, engage in safer sex. While safer sex is not one hundred percent effective, it can greatly reduce your risk of infection with HIV and other diseases. Use latex or plastic condoms for anal sex, intercourse, or oral sex with men. Avoid lambskin condoms. Use dental dams or other barriers for oral sex with women. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants. Using latex or plastic condoms with water-based lubricants may also help reduce risk. The best method to prevent developing any sexually transmitted disease, including AIDS, is abstinence.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File INFE4621.RF2 VRS# 4621 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999-2000, 2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.