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Specialists are advocating for the replacement of the acronym AIDS with “advanced HIV,” arguing that the term is outdated, carries stigma, and can lead to potentially harmful misconceptions. In a Viewpoint article published in The Lancet HIV, Isaac Núñez, MD, and colleagues suggest that the term AIDS, which stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, no longer accurately reflects the contemporary challenges in HIV care.
The term AIDS was originally coined by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 1982 to describe a disease affecting individuals with weakened immune systems, with its use intended for surveillance purposes. However, with advancements in HIV research, particularly the identification of HIV as the cause of the disease, the term AIDS has become less relevant and potentially misleading.
According to Núñez and his team, the association of AIDS with a lack of treatment options and a short life expectancy may influence both patients’ and clinicians’ perceptions and treatment decisions. They argue that focusing on whether individuals have been on treatment and their response to therapy would be more beneficial than relying on the outdated AIDS classification.
Some organizations have already taken steps to remove AIDS from their names, signaling a shift towards more inclusive and accurate terminology. However, not everyone agrees with this proposed change.
Greg Millett, MPH, from the Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR), acknowledges that while the term AIDS may be outdated, it may not be the most pressing issue facing the HIV community. Millett emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic issues such as stigma, discrimination, and access to care, rather than solely focusing on terminology.
James W. Curran, MD, MPH, dean emeritus of the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, shares concerns about the potential consequences of eliminating the term AIDS. He warns that removing the term may contribute to confusion and could lead to a perception that the HIV epidemic is over, potentially undermining efforts to combat the disease.
In conclusion, while the debate over the term AIDS continues, experts emphasize the need for a holistic approach to HIV care that addresses both medical and societal challenges. Whether the term is ultimately replaced or retained, the focus should remain on ending the HIV epidemic and improving the lives of those affected by the virus.
