Utilizing Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV Prevention and Transmission Reduction in the United States
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By
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Laura Matrajt
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Sarah E. Stansfield
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Mia Moore
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Deborah J. Donnell
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Elizabeth R. Brown
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Myron S. Cohen
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Dobromir Dimitrov
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August 21, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Utilizing Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV Prevention and Transmission Reduction in the United States
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | HIV |
| Key Mechanisms | Antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces HIV transmission when viral suppression is achieved. |
| Target Population | People living with HIV (PLHIV), including men who have sex with men (MSM), women, heterosexual men, and people who inject drugs (PWID). |
| Care Setting | Clinical settings providing HIV treatment and prevention services. |
Key Highlights
- ART significantly lowers sexual HIV transmission when viral suppression is achieved.
- The U=U principle (undetectable = untransmittable) has been widely adopted.
- Treatment as prevention (TasP) is a key strategy in controlling the HIV epidemic.
- Reductions in AIDS drug assistance programs may lead to increased HIV acquisitions.
- PrEP is modeled to reduce HIV transmission based on adherence levels.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Regular HIV testing for high-risk populations.
Management
- Initiate ART for all PLHIV regardless of CD4 cell count.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Monitor viral load to ensure viral suppression.
Risks
- Diminished access to ART may lead to increased HIV incidence.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals living with HIV in the United States.
ART is essential for viral suppression and reducing transmission risk.
Clinical Best Practices
- Implement TasP strategies in HIV care.
- Ensure access to ART for all PLHIV.
- Promote PrEP among high-risk populations.
Related Resources & Content
