According to the CDC, HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It weakens a person’s immune system by destroying important cells that fight disease and infection. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which is the final stage of an HIV infection when the body is unable to fend off disease. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states, infection happens primarily when people inject drugs and share needles, or other drug equipment and/or when people have unprotected sex with a partner who is already infected.

As stated by the CDC, there is currently no effective cure for HIV. Once people get HIV, they have it for life. But with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled. People with HIV who get effective HIV treatment can live long, healthy lives and protect their partner(s).

SAMHSA also reports mental illness can interfere with HIV prevention, and adherence to treatment. Mental illness is also linked to behaviors that increase the likelihood of contracting HIV.

Download the latest factsheet on HIV/AIDS Awareness and Prevention in the Hispanic and Latino/a/e/x communities for more information, including risk factors and challenges, prevention solutions, and other resources.