HIV & AIDS

The diagnosis of HIV & AIDS can be one of the most difficult things a patient can hear. At Banner Health, we are with you every step of the way through not only treatment, but support and education as well.

AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which kills or impairs cells of the immune system and continues to destroy the body's ability to fight infections and certain cancers. HIV is most commonly spread by sexual contact with an infected partner.

How is HIV/AIDS Spread?

• Sexual contact
• Blood contamination
• Needles
• Mother-infant - HIV can be spread to babies born to, or breastfed by, mothers infected with the virus.

HIV/AIDS cannot be spread through:

• Saliva
• Sweat
• Tears
• Casual contact, such as sharing food utensils, towels and bedding
• Swimming pools
• Telephones
• Toilet seats
• Biting insects (such as mosquitoes)