This archive report was first published on 11 December 2019.
Published on December 11, 2019, Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko made a shocking revelation in court documents, stating that he had HIV and needed specialized treatment.
Contrary to popular belief, contracting HIV is not a death sentence. Studies have shown that a person living with HIV has a similar life expectancy to an HIV-negative person, provided they are diagnosed in good time, have access to quality medical care, and adhere to their HIV treatment.
Factors Affecting Life Expectancy ¶
Several factors can impact the life expectancy of individuals living with HIV, including access to effective treatment and high-quality medical care, timely diagnosis, and lifestyle choices such as diet, physical activity, and social connections.
Women generally live longer than men, and a balanced lifestyle, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excess alcohol or drug use, can contribute to a longer life expectancy.
Opportunistic Infections ¶
However, if left untreated, HIV can lead to opportunistic infections, which can be life-threatening. These infections include tuberculosis, recurring pneumonia, salmonella, brain and spinal cord disease, and various types of lung and intestinal infections.
Preventing opportunistic infections requires adhering to treatment, getting routine checkups, using condoms during sex, getting vaccinated, and eating properly prepared foods.
