The Graphic Arts Benefit Corporation (GABC) is a unique health benefits program serving the Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia areas.

We offer a number of medical plans or supplement coverage with dental care, vision care or disability benefits. Group term life insurance completes your range of options.

We are proud to offer Competitive Rates, Comprehensive Coverage, and Superior Service!

World AIDS Day is December 1st

The History of HIV and AIDS is a short one and yet since it was first reported, just over thirty years ago, it has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Moving through our 'HIV/AIDS History Topics' you will be guided through the history of the global HIV and AIDS epidemic, enabling you to experience how the response to HIV and AIDS has changed over time.

In the early years of the epidemic HIV was an unknown and eared virus that was untreatable and often fatal. However, as research, investment and commitment into understanding HIV and AIDS increased, so the outcome of people living with HIV improved around the world. Key historical moments in the history of HIV and AIDS can be explored through the HIV and AIDS timeline, such as the development of highly-effective antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of HIV. Detailed year-by-year accounts, including different country responses to preventing, testing and treating HIV, are also available.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, shortened AIDS, is caused by HIV. Some people may refer to AIDS as advanced HIV infection.

HIV is a virus that gradually attacks immune system cells. As HIV progressively damages these cells, the body becomes more vulnerable to infections, which it will have difficulty in fighting off. It is at the point of very advanced HIV infection that a person is said to have AIDS. If left untreated, it can take around ten years before HIV has damaged the immune system enough for AIDS to develop.

There are a number of tests that are used to find out whether a person is infected with HIV. These include the HIV antibody test, p24 antigen test and PCR test. There are other types of HIV testing, which are used once a person has been diagnosed with the virus. These include the CD4 test and the viral load test.

Antiretroviral treatment can significantly prolong the lives of people living with HIV. Modern combination therapy is highly effective and someone with HIV who is taking treatment could live for the rest of their life without developing AIDS.

An AIDS diagnosis does not necessarily equate to a death sentence. Many people can still benefit from starting antiretroviral therapy even once they have developed an AIDS defining illness. Better treatment and prevention for opportunistic infections have also helped to improve the quality and length of life for those diagnosed with AIDS.

Treating some opportunistic infections is easier than others. Infections such as herpes zoster and candidiasis of the mouth, throat or vagina, can be managed effectively in most environments. On the other hand, more complex infections such as toxoplasmosis, need advanced medical equipment and infrastructure, which are lacking in many resource-poor areas.

It is also important that treatment is provided for AIDS related pain, which is experienced by almost all people in the very advanced stages of HIV infection.