HIV testing has gotten increasingly more simple and accessible in recent years. And the next big push might just be as simple as attaching a gadget to your cell phone. The technology is a cheaper and quicker alternative to the typical ELISA testing in a lab, which can cost thousands of dollars. This test can detect the virus in its early stages. Detection during the earliest stages, especially in pregnant women, can help them avoid passing the condition to their babies. This can be extremely important in the decrease spreading the disease.
This test uses a simple blood kit that includes a finger stick. The kit can attach to a smart phone. It only costs around 30 dollars. Results can be read a few minutes later via an app on the phone. This type of technology is very similar to more expensive tests, and coming back with false positives has been known to happen. People who receive a positive result should go seek more testing and medical treatment as soon as possible. Doctors and researchers have found those who seek treatment and take the medications at the earliest possible stage often live longer and have better quality of life than those who do not.
While it's true that a diagnosis of HIV used to be thought of as a death sentence, that type of thinking certainly isn't the norm anymore. Advances in anti-virals and other medications along with advice regarding lifestyle changes have made a huge difference in the lives of those affective by this disease. People are now leading longer and healthier lives than they were even 10 or 20 years ago. And stopping the spread of disease through awareness and education can drop the numbers of those who might otherwise become infected.
Although this new technology shows promise, more time is needed to make sure it's developed properly. And by doing more research we may be able to reduce the risk of future generations being affected. This type of testing can cut down the risk and make it easier for diagnosis and treatment. And that is something that is definitely well worth the fight.
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