There are more than 71,000 people living with HIV infection in Canada, with the numbers growing each year. In advance of World AIDS Day, Sunnybrook’s Dr. Anita Rachlis dispels some common myths and misunderstandings about HIV/AIDS.
Myth 1: HIV only affects the gay population. Anyone who has unprotected sexual intercourse, shares needles or has tattoos or piercing tools that are not sterilized are at risk for contracting HIV. 33% of all people living with HIV in Canada attribute their risk to heterosexual sex. 23% of all people living with HIV are female.
Myth 2: HIV and AIDS are the same thing. Fact: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) refers to the presence of the virus itself in a person’s bloodstream. This virus attacks the immune system, leaving people vulnerable to infections. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) refers to when the person’s immune system has weakened so much it can no longer fight off various infections and diseases.
Myth 3: If I’ve had my blood taken for any purpose, I’ve been tested for HIV. Fact: Unless your physician specifically tells you that HIV will be checked as part of the blood test you’ve had, you shouldn’t assume it is. Testing for HIV can be done through your family doctor, Public Health or at anonymous testing centers such as Hassle Free. The important thing is to be tested!
Myth 4: I can contract HIV through common items like toothbrushes. Fact: While you shouldn’t share toothbrushes with others for hygiene reasons, you cannot contract HIV this way. You cannot catch HIV by breathing the same air as someone with HIV, touching the toilet seat after someone with HIV, drinking from the same glass or sharing eating utensils and you cannot get HIV from hugging, kissing or shaking hands with someone who is HIV+. You can get HIV from infected blood, semen, vaginal fluid or mother’s milk.
Myth 5: If I contract HIV, I’ll die soon.
Fact: Advances in medication therapies mean people with HIV can often live very close to a normal lifespan. It’s important to get diagnosed early and request referral to one of the HIV Clinics for specialist care. There is currently no cure for HIV but like other chronic diseases, you can live a longer, productive and relatively healthy life with treatment.
