HIV Risk and Prevention

photos of risky behaviors and efforts to prevent HVI

In the United States, HIV is mainly spread by having sex or sharing syringes and other injection equipment with someone who is infected with HIV. Substance use can contribute to these risks indirectly because alcohol and other drugs can lower people’s inhibitions and make them less likely to use condoms. This section provides information on the various risk behaviors and various prevention methods that can be utilized to reduce the risk of transmitting HIV.