When AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) was first recognized in 1981, patients with the disease were unlikely to live longer than a year or two. Since then, scientists have developed an effective arsenal of drugs that can help many people infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) live longer and healthier lives.
The treatment and prevention of HIV is a high priority for the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Research supported by NIAID has greatly advanced our understanding of HIV and how it causes AIDS. This knowledge provides the foundation for NIAID AIDS research effort and continues to support studies designed to further extend and improve the quality of life of those infected with HIV.
