Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is a cornerstone of successful HIV treatment, playing a critical role in suppressing the virus and preventing the development of drug resistance. HIV is a rapidly mutating virus, and when the virus is not sufficiently suppressed, the likelihood of the virus adapting to the medications increases. This adaptation, or resistance, occurs when the virus mutates in ways that enable it to survive despite the presence of antiretrovirals in the bloodstream. Therefore, poor adherence to ART is one of the most significant factors contributing to the emergence of HIV drug resistance. When an individual with HIV is prescribed antiretroviral drugs, the goal is to reduce the viral load to undetectable levels and keep it there for the long term. For this to happen, patients must consistently take their medications as prescribed this means not missing doses, taking the correct dose at the correct time, and following any dietary or other instructions associated with the therapy. ART is highly effective when followed properly, reducing the risk of HIV transmission and promoting immune system recovery.
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