Riverside, California (NAPSI) - A new national online survey conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of ViiV Healthcare in 2013 sheds some light on potential reasons why some HIV-positive people seek and stay on treatment and others do not.

Why does that matter? Because, despite significant strides in HIV therapy and access to care, only one in three HIV-positive adults in the U.S. are taking the medicines they need to live longer, healthier lives and reduce the chance of passing the disease on to a partner.

According to the survey, HIV-positive adults who aren’t using a prescription medicine to treat their disease may not have accurate information about HIV and its treatment. In fact, only 25 percent of these folks are aware that taking HIV prescription medicine reduces the risk of passing the disease on to a partner.

“This survey shows that gaps in knowledge about treatment among people living with HIV may serve as potential barriers to antiretroviral therapy and that educating people about the importance and benefits of HIV treatment is critical,” said Julie Scofield, Executive Director, National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors. “As part of our ongoing educational efforts, we must also continue to address the ongoing stigma and discrimination issues that people living with HIV face. The associated consequences are far-reaching and can interfere with HIV testing, care and treatment.”

Health authorities recommend early treatment for the benefit of the patient, so it’s important that anyone who tests positive for HIV seek the care and counsel that he or she needs. The website www.aids.gov is a great resource for information about HIV testing, treatment and local support.

Learn More

For more information about the survey, visit www.ViiVHealthcare.com.