There have been significant improvements in HIV treatment and care since the beginning of the HIV epidemic. People living with HIV who have access to effective HIV treatment and good health care can live long healthy lives, like their HIV-negative peers.
A wide range of factors influences life expectancy for people living with HIV. Studies have shown people who start their treatment as soon as possible and have a good response to their treatments have increased life expectancy compared to people who don't.
Adults who started treatment between 2000 and 2010 in the UK and who have an undetectable viral load and CD4 count above 350 after one year of treatment are expected to live to around the age of 83. The life expectancy for adults in the UK shows differences based on gender, viral load, CD4 cell count and your current age. Click here for more detailed information about life expectancy.
In addition to early diagnosis and adherence to treatment, there are other factors that affect everyone's life expectancy. For example, studies show that people who have a balanced diet, don’t smoke and are physically active have better life expectancies. Also, being socially connected and avoiding excessive alcohol and drug use improves your long-term health. Click here to find out more on healthy living.