Critiques findings from CDC research suggesting criminal exposure laws have had no detectable HIV prevention effect, arguing that by taking account of social science research, even stronger conclusions about the harms of HIV exposure laws are possible.
Constructing an “HIV-Killer”: HIV Non-Disclosure and the Techniques of Vilification
An analysis of the notorious Canadian criminal case of Johnson Aziga. The article outlines five key ways that people living with HIV who do not disclose their status to a sexual partner are characterised as dangerous by both the criminal justice system and the media.
Association of HIV diagnosis rates and laws criminalizing HIV exposure in the United States
This study assessed the relationship between HIV and AIDS diagnosis data from the (US) National HIV Surveillance System and the presence of a state criminal exposure law by using generalized estimating equations. It found no association between HIV or AIDS diagnosis rates and criminal exposure laws across states over time, suggesting that these laws have had no detectable HIV prevention effect.
Risk of HIV Infection Per Single Sexual Exposure to an Individual Living with HIV, and Other Life Events Comparable Risk of Occurrence
Compares risk of HIV transmission from a single sexual encounter with odds of illness or death from other life events.
Comparisons of causes of death and mortality rates among HIV-infected persons: analysis of the pre-, early, and late HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) eras
Finds that despite increasing concerns regarding antiretroviral resistance, the death rate among HIV-infected persons declined. A shift in the causes of death toward non-HIV-related causes suggests a more comprehensive health care approach may be needed for optimal life expectancy.
Projected life expectancy of people with HIV according to timing of diagnosis
Estimates the life expectancy of an HIV-infected MSM living in a developed country with extensive access to ART and healthcare. Finds that predicted life expectancy is relatively high in people with HIV who can access a wide range of antiretrovirals. Finds the greatest risk of excess mortality is due to delays in HIV diagnosis.
Mortality in well controlled HIV in the continuous antiretroviral therapy arms of the SMART and ESPRIT trials compared with the general population
Compares mortality rates in well controlled HIV-infected adults in two clinical trials with the general population. Found that HIV-infected individuals on ART with a recent undetectable viral load, who maintained or had recovery of CD4(+) cell counts to at least 500 cells/μl, had no increased risk of death compared with the general population.
Closing the gap: increases in life expectancy among treated HIV-positive individuals in the United States and Canada
Estimates temporal changes in life expectancy among HIV-positive adults on ART from 2000–2007 in the U.S. and Canada. Found a 20-year-old HIV-positive adult on ART could expect to live into their early 70s, a life expectancy approaching that of the general population. Differences by sex, race, HIV transmission risk group, and CD4 count remained.
Life expectancy living with HIV: recent estimates and future implications
Review of the latest literature shows life expectancy of people with HIV has dramatically increased since effective antiretroviral therapy has been available, and it continues to improve. Modelling studies suggest life expectancy could improve further with increased uptake of HIV testing, better antiretroviral regimens and treatment strategies, and the adoption of healthier lifestyles by those living with HIV. Early diagnosis is particularly important.
Lack of transmission of HIV through human bites and scratches
Report of small study following an HIV-positive man with severe brain damage and poor dental hygiene (causing bleeding gums) who was frequently violent to hospital staff. After 2.5 years follow up, all of the 30 people he’d bitten or scratched remained HIV-negative.