AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is a condition that occurs in the late stages of HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus infection. Anyone who puts himself at risk for HIV should get tested. There are different tests available and many resources for finding test locations.
Risk Factors for HIV
People who have had sex without a condom with multiple partners or with men who have sex with men have put themselves at risk for AIDS. Since HIV is blood-borne, if a person has shared needles or equipment that is used to inject drugs, she should get screened for HIV. Women who plan on getting pregnant or who are pregnant and think they have put themselves at risk also should get tested.
The "Window Period"
It takes time for HIV antibodies to develop, even up to three months in some people. According to the National HIV and STD Testing Resources, this is called the "window period," during which the antibodies that develop to fight infection cannot be detected on HIV antibody tests. For this reason, people should take an antibody test three months after exposure or high-risk activity to ensure that the window period has passed.
HIV Tests Available
Enzyme immunoassay tests are the most common tests and are followed up with a western blot test to confirm a positive result. Rapid tests that produce results in 20 minutes are similar to the enzyme immunoassay tests. RNA tests test for HIV genetic material and are more expensive, but take only nine to 11 days after exposure to be valid.
Mode of Testing
According to the National HIV and STD Testing Resources, antibody tests typically use blood, but there also are tests that use saliva or urine. Some tests take a few days for results, while others can give a result within 20 minutes.
Benefits of Getting Tested
Many advances have been made in HIV and AIDS treatments. If a person is positive and does not know, he is putting himself at risk for the HIV progressing and developing opportunistic infections. Knowing HIV status gives a person the chance to take medications if necessary to prevent or delay the development of AIDS. Screening efforts also can result in opportunities for learning about prevention of HIV and related high-risk behaviors.
