AIDS

AIDS is the advanced stage of HIV infection, when the immune system is damaged. Without treatment, about half of those with HIV develop AIDS within 10 years, although the period between infection and development varies widely, from one to 20 years.

Our Approach to AIDS

UCSF has been a pioneer in HIV and AIDS care ever since our HIV/AIDS program welcomed its first patients in 1984. Our comprehensive treatment center is a safe space where patients living with HIV or AIDS can meet their health needs in a single location. We offer a full range of high-quality services, including primary care, sexual health testing and treatment, and provision of preventive tools, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication. For individual patients, we tailor care plans that encompass nutrition, medication management, pain management, exercise, mental health, social support and long-term wellness.

We also offer specialty services not widely available, including programs designed to address the particular needs of women and children, older adults and African American men. Our center's telemedicine program helps us reach patients in marginalized or underserved communities, as well as others who face financial, social, time or additional barriers to accessing excellent care.

Finally, as a leader in HIV/AIDS research, UCSF offers patients access to cutting-edge therapies under evaluation in clinical trials.