HIV Patients' Life Expectancy Boosted by 15 Years

According to the conclusions of a new investigation published in the October 12 issue of the British Medical Journal (BMJ), the life expectancy of people suffering from AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) in the United Kingdom has increased by 15 years.

Decades ago, being diagnosed with the condition roughly equaled a death sentence that would become reality within a few months to a few years. Now, thanks to advancements in antiretroviral medication, life spans can be extended for longer than ever before.

“Our research has found life expectancy in the HIV-positive population has significantly improved in the UK,” explains University of Bristol School of Social and Community Medicine senior research fellow and lead study author, Dr Margaret May.

“We should expect further improvements for patients starting antiretroviral therapy now with improved modern drugs and new guidelines recommending earlier treatment,” she concludes.