New research from the University of Illinois shows progress in the fight of HIV

Posted on January 28, 2021
Medicaid expansion has cut down on undiagnosed HIV, according to new University of Illinois research. (Photo courtesy: American Journal of Preventative Medicine)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – HIV, the virus which causes AIDS, is best treated – like many other chronic conditions – as soon as it’s detected. And, according to new University of Illinois research, you can credit Medicaid expansion with reducing the number of undetected cases.

“You may start to have some symptoms (within) five or six years” of contracting HIV, says researcher Bita Fayez Farkhad. “Then, it is too late.”

Farkhad says the increased access to insurance means more people are taking PrEP – pre-exposure prophylaxis – a daily preventive pill.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]. 

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