What has allowed those with HIV infection and AIDS to live longer according to the material?

• A. No treatment
• B. Antiretroviral therapy and drug therapy combinations
• C. Isolation
• D. Stigma

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that antiretroviral therapy, especially when given as a combination of drugs, has dramatically extended the lives of people with HIV/AIDS by suppressing the virus and restoring the immune system. HIV attacks CD4 cells, weakening immunity. A regimen that uses multiple antiretrovirals targets different steps of the virus’s life cycle, reducing viral load in the blood to very low or undetectable levels. When the virus is kept under control, CD4 counts recover, opportunistic infections decline, and people can live longer and healthier lives. Proper adherence and appropriate drug combinations are key to preventing resistance and maintaining this benefit. In contrast, options like no treatment, isolation, or stigma don’t combat the virus and don’t improve survival.