Question
Worrying about life expectancy…
28 October 2009. Related: Adherence, All topics, Living with HIV long-term.
I keep hearing that HIV-positive people can now expect a near normal life expectancy – but how true is this statement?
I have just found out that someone I knew who had HIV died. I know they did a fair amount of recreational drugs such as ecstacy and ketamin, and smoked weed, I know they also enjoyed a few alcoholic drinks. I dont know how this person died and i can guess that his life style did not help his situation but it has frightened me a great deal. its partly shock but also makes me wonder when my time will be up.
I have not done any recreational drugs now for roughly 2 years and dont intend to go back to it. I have the odd drink (probably once a fortnight or less). I don’t smoke but i am over weight i had my last CD4 count done just a few weeks ago at 510 and I’m starting to worry all the time now. It feels a bit like jumping out of a plane with out a parachute, hurtling towards the ground and nothing i can do to save myself….
Please let me have your thoughts, I value all your wise comments and admire your commitment to such a valuable site.
Answer
The statement about living a normal life is supported now by several studies that model life expectancy based on the low risk of HIV-related illnesses in people who are doing well on HAART. This involves good adherence though and not missing drugs or developing resistance.
Even without knowing your details, a CD4 count over 500 is considered near to normal, and planning for the next 20, 30, or 40 years (depending on your age now) is very realistic. You have already taken steps to reduce other lifestyle risks, which is also a good thing
Your worrying now is more likely to be related to hearing about your friend’s death, and this is a common reaction whenever we loose someone.
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