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Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection: A Focus on Women

Yvonne Newberry, FNP

Gregory C. Townsend, MD

Nearly half of all HIV infections worldwide occur in women, and 20% of AIDS cases in the United States are women. Differences in HIV virologic and immunologic markers occur between men and women and have been studied to determine the effect on disease progression, mortality, and treatment. Certain adverse clinical events associated with highly active retroviral therapy (HAART), such as drug rashes and lipodystrophy, may affect women more than men. Depressive symptoms and low mental health quality of life occur commonly in HIV-infected women and can influence whether a woman will use HAART. Substance abuse among HIV-infected women is common, which can play a factor in coinfection rate with other infectious diseases and adherence to therapy. Also, HIV-infected women are at risk for increased severity and prevalence of human papillomavirus, which can be associated with cervical cancer. As demographics of HIV infection change, medical, psychological, and social problems must be addressed.

Key Words: HIV • women • HAART • substance abuse • mental health

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