Why is it valuable to detect HIV infections as early as possible?
There are two major reasons why it is valuable to detect an HIV infection as soon as possible after it has occurred: • Early detection is good for people getting tested for HIV. HIV tests that provide an accurate result sooner after infection may significantly reduce the anxiety of “not knowing” that many people feel after they think they may have been exposed to HIV. For those who test HIV-positive, testing early may give them a better sense of how and when they were exposed to HIV. It may also provide them with greater opportunities to access services and support that will help manage their health and well-being. Another distinct advantage of early diagnosis is that people can access anti-HIV treatment before their immune systems have been severely damaged, which can also improve their long-term health outcomes. • Early detection can help prevent new HIV infections. Research demonstrates that almost half of new HIV infections may come from individuals who have been newly infected.1 T
