There’s evidence to show that people who understand the benefits of HIV treatment are more likely to take their treatment properly. It’s good to know that the amount of illness and death caused by HIV has fallen dramatically since effective HIV treatment became available. Researchers have calculated that HIV treatment will mean that many people with the virus who started treatment before their immune system was very damaged, and who adhere to their treatment, can expect to live a normal lifespan.

Taking HIV treatment can mean that you have no health problems because of HIV. It is important to keep taking HIV treatment to allow it to work and keep you well and your immune system strong in the long term.

Faith and religious beliefs are important to many people. There have been cases of people making treatment decisions based on religious beliefs.

If you have questions or concerns about the effectiveness of HIV treatment or its possible side-effects, it makes sense to discuss these with your HIV doctor or another member of your healthcare team.  They should not judge your religious beliefs, but help you make an informed decision about the right course of treatment for you. There are also faith leaders who are well informed about HIV and who can support you in continuing with treatment.