December 1 Is World AIDS Day

Keywords: HIV, AIDS

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV. By killing or damaging cells of the body's immune system, HIV progressively destroys the body's ability to fight infections and certain cancers. These infections are caused by viruses or bacteria that usually do not make healthy people sick.

Many people infected with HIV or living with AIDS may be considering the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to boost their immune system; treat complications of disease; or cope with side effects of conventional medications.

To ensure safe and coordinated care, people should talk to their health care providers about any CAM therapy that they are currently using or considering. It is important not to replace conventional medical therapy for HIV/AIDS with an unproven CAM therapy.

Fact Sheets

• Are You Considering Using CAM?
• Herbs at a Glance Series
• Herbal Supplements: Consider Safety, Too
• Tips for Talking With Your Health Care Providers About CAM

Clinical Trials

The following are select studies that are sponsored by NCCAM and are enrolling participants:

• Preliminary Study of Safety and Efficacy of Policosanol
• Acupuncture/Moxibustion for Peripheral Neuropathy in HIV
• Acupuncture and Relaxation Response for GI Symptoms and HIV Medication Adherence

View ALL NCCAM-sponsored HIV/AIDS clinical trials.

More Resources

• International Team Studies South African Plant for HIV/AIDS (NCCAM Newsletter article)
• Understanding HIV/AIDS (NIAID)
• HIV/AIDS Information from Medline Plus (Medline Plus)
• Living with HIV/AIDS (CDC)
• AIDS.gov