Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is an illness that weakens the body's immune system. The immune system of a person with AIDS is not able to fight off certain infections and cancers.

The Immune System

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AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which destroys important immune system cells. HIV is spread through contact with HIV-infected blood or other body fluids, including semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. Unprotected sex is the most common mode of transmission. Sharing needles for injecting drugs is another common way the virus is transferred.

What are the risk factors for AIDS?What are the symptoms of AIDS?How is AIDS diagnosed?What are the treatments for AIDS?Are there screening tests for AIDS?How can I reduce my risk of AIDS?What questions should I ask my doctor?What is it like to live with AIDS?Where can I get more information about AIDS?

References

HIV/AIDS. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease website. Available at: http://www.niaid.nih.gov/topics/HIVAIDS/Understanding/Pages/whatAreHIVAIDS.aspx. Accessed May 15, 2013.

HIV/AIDS. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/index.html. Accessed May 15, 2013.

A guide to primary care of people with HIV/AIDS. National Institute of Health and Human Services website. Available at: http://hab.hrsa.gov/deliverhivaidscare/files/primary2004ed.pdf. Accessed May 15, 2013.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2010. MMWR. 2010;59(No. RR-12):1-110.