Is It Possible to Manage HIV Effectively Without Medical Treatment?

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, attacks essential immune cells, heightening susceptibility to infections and diseases. If untreated, it can advance to AIDS. In 2019, studies revealed that Black individuals were 8.1 times more likely to receive an HIV diagnosis. Recent research led by Dr. Anthony Fauci and Tae-Wook Chun from the NIAID indicates that patients can maintain viral control after cessation of antiretroviral therapy (ART). The study followed two participants who suppressed the virus for several years before discontinuing ART. One participant showed prolonged suppression, while the other experienced a viral resurgence due to a different strain—“superinfection.” Findings emphasize the importance of immunity and strategies to prevent superinfection, underscoring effective prevention measures, including condom use and regular testing.