Three misconceptions about the ways HIV is transmitted.

He identified risk factors such as a history of injection drug use, non-sterile surgeries, blood transfusions, high-risk sexual behaviors, promiscuity, multiple sexual partners, and homosexuality. People exposed to these factors should undergo regular HIV testing.

According to Dr. Mardani, HIV testing is widely available across the country and can be performed in clinics, laboratories, hospitals, and both public and private medical centers. Individuals can visit these centers to get tested.

He emphasized that if the HIV test result is positive, the person must consult an infectious disease specialist to undergo further specialized testing. He also recommended that antiretroviral treatment should begin within a week of diagnosis.

Dr. Mardani stated that research has shown that early initiation of antiretroviral drugs can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission during sexual contact and prevent the disease from spreading to others.

He mentioned the availability of HIV/AIDS behavioral counseling centers at medical universities across the country, including in Tehran. These centers provide free diagnostic, treatment, and disease detection services to individuals and their families, and all information is kept confidential.

He advised individuals who have any doubt about potential exposure to the disease to visit these centers for testing and reminded them that the goal of these centers is to provide rapid treatment, rehabilitation, and support for patients.

Latest Advances in HIV Treatment

A member of the National HIV/AIDS Committee described "antiretroviral" drugs as effective treatments for AIDS. These drugs, once treatment begins, reduce the viral load and must be continued for life.

Dr. Masoud Mardani also mentioned the introduction of new injectable treatments for HIV, which allow patients to continue their treatment on a monthly basis, rather than taking daily antiretroviral medications.

At-Risk Groups

According to the National HIV/AIDS Committee, the at-risk groups for HIV in the country include individuals aged 20 to 40 who have unprotected sexual contact outside of family boundaries.

He expressed concern that individuals with high-risk behaviors often ignore early symptoms and only seek medical help when the disease has progressed. He reassured that HIV/AIDS is not fatal and is treatable. Many individuals with HIV have been under treatment for years and live with the disease, with the main difference being the daily use of medication.

Suspicious Symptoms

In conclusion, Dr. Mardani advised individuals who experience unexplained weight loss, diarrhea, or fever and have high-risk sexual behaviors or a history of injection drug use or blood transfusions to suspect HIV/AIDS and seek medical attention for further investigation.