11: A True Test

Why should I test for HIV? Just thinking of the word “test” can induce stress or anxiety in many people. Perhaps it’s memories of tests at school and difficult math problems, or a driver’s test and the dreaded parallel parking portion. There’s often a built in concern about tests in our society and HIV testing also brings a significant set of expectations and challenges, many of which still stem from the days when an HIV diagnosis would result in almost certain death within a year or two. However, it’s a test that can also improve or save lives.

Early in the HIV epidemic, there was no test for HIV. A diagnosis of AIDS was made based only on observable symptoms, not on the ability to detect the HIV virus which leads to AIDS. Once an HIV test was available, absent any treatments or cure, many chose to not test. Many individuals loudly proclaimed in the 1980’s, “Why get tested? There’s not a thing I can do about this disease and I’d rather just not know.”

Well, times have changed. Today there are many reasons to get tested if you have any potential risk factors that could have exposed you to HIV. There is now a large arsenal of medications that can slow down the progression of this disease. There are treatments that can help address many of the symptoms or illnesses that afflict those living with HIV and who have a weakened immune system. But perhaps the most important reason to test? We know, and research has shown, that those who know their status take steps to not infect others and protect themselves against re-infection.

So why would someone choose to test? Simply put, if you have any risk factors for HIV transmission, an HIV test is easy, inexpensive and can provide you with a definitive answer to the question, “Am I HIV-positive?” Consider some of the common risk factors that increase an individual’s need for testing including sharing equipment (such as needles, cookers, works) with others to inject illicit drugs or steroids, having unprotected sex, having multiple sex partners, or having anonymous sex partners.

The Minnesota AIDS Project has long been a source for testing information and offers testing by appointment to those that need it. The stigma that surrounds HIV continues to make testing a challenge for many. C.C. Smith, an outreach worker for the Minnesota AIDS Project, sees people that are misinformed and scared to test, “they may be afraid of hearing the results or being seen even being tested but many also begin to realize that it’s important to know their status too.” People that may be overcoming addictions or struggling with self-acceptance about their sexuality are also often very hesitant to test for fear of finding yet another mountain to climb in their recovery or relationships with others.

There are several tests currently approved by the FDA that provide results in anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes. All rapid tests look for the presence of HIV antibodies and results of rapid tests are either negative or reactive. A negative test means that no HIV antibodies were detected by the test. If the test result is negative and the individual testing has had three or more months without any HIV risk exposure, the person is considered to be negative. If the test result is reactive, meaning that HIV antibodies have been detected, a confirmatory test is required before a diagnosis of HIV infection can be given and the results of that second, confirming test generally come about a week later.

What is it that holds us back from finding the truth? It’s being human. Nobody wants to face potentially bad news or look at the reality of how your life would need to change if you do receive a positive diagnosis. However, the other important truth is that if there is any reason to believe you might be at risk for HIV you need to know your status. Early treatment is a tremendous advantage for anyone living with HIV and the knowledge of your status can allow you to make safer decisions about sex with those you care for. The emotions we have that can keep us away from testing are exactly those that also provide people the strength to handle an HIV diagnosis: caring for others should translate to caring for yourself, fear of the unknown can be replaced with courage to face the truth, and stigma or shame can be transformed into strength and pride as a community of people living with HIV have stepped forward to demonstrate that HIV doesn’t have to be a death sentence.

As of December 31, 2007, nearly 6,000 Minnesotans are living with HIV and continue to inspire both with their achievements and in their challenges in dealing with HIV. There are also an estimated 2,500 living with HIV who don’t yet know they are infected. If you or anyone else needs assistance in learning more or knowing your status, the Minnesota AIDS Project offers assessments and free testing for those that need it through the AIDSLine online or by phone at 800-248-AIDS.

Last Updated: Tuesday, May 27, 2008
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