Approximately 39.5 million people live with HIV/AIDS worldwide, according to the Mayo Clinic. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, is the end stage of the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, infection that weakens the immune system. While no cure is available, knowing the risk factors for this disease can reduce a person's risk of becoming infected.
Unprotected Sex
The most common mode of transmission is unprotected sex because the HIV/AIDS virus is found in both semen and vaginal fluids. During intercourse, small tears develop in the vagina and anus, which is how transmission occurs, according to the Mayo Clinic. This risk is the same whether a person is heterosexual, bisexual or homosexual.
Sharing Needles
People who use injectable drugs and share needles are at a greater risk for contracting AIDS. Aurora Health Care explains that even a small amount of blood containing the HIV virus can infect another person. Therefore, it is better to use a clean needle rather than share needles with other drug users.
Blood Transfusions
People receiving a blood transfusion may be at risk for contracting AIDS, although as the CDC points out, this risk decreased after 1985. This is when the United States began testing all donated blood for HIV antibodies.
Delivering a Baby Vaginally
Expectant mothers who are HIV-positive increase the risk of passing the virus to their baby when opting for a vaginal delivery versus a Caesarean section. Vaginal deliveries subject newborns to the mother's bodily fluids.
Breast-feeding rather than bottle feeding with formula increases the child's risk as well. Breast milk contains the HIV antibodies, which pass from mother to child during the feeding.
Being a Health-care Worker
Not only are health-care workers subjected to contaminated blood, they run the risk of accidental needle sticks when attempting to administer a patient with medication or draw blood.
Having Multiple Sex Partners
The more sex partners a person has, the greater his risk for developing AIDS. This is especially true if the sexual history or HIV status of each partner is not known and proper precautionary measures are not taken with each partner.
