Aids is caused by HIV, which destroys important cells in the immune system. It was first described in 1979 and the virus was identified in 1983. Then, patients died because there was no treatment. Today there are many medicines. These allow people with AIDS to lead more normal lives. Extensive research is underway into even better medicines for the future.
Disease: Aids
Last update: June 2008
Intro
FAQ: What does the future hold?
There is a lot of research into new antiviral agents and combinations of antiviral agents. Industry is developing medicines which boost the immune system and vaccines to help prevent and treat AIDS. Finally, research is underway into compounds to treat the lethal infections that take advantage of the HIV-weakened patient.