The athlete and HIV

Physicians are called upon to provide information and guidance concerning HIV and AIDS. Education and prevention are important elements in halting this dreaded disease. Athletes are at risk for exposure to HIV because of close contact and the potential for bleeding and resulting exposure. The risk of actual transmission is more potential than real. Precautions should always be taken so that athletes and those caring for them can minimize risks of exposure and transmission. To date, no conclusive case of HIV transmission has been reported in the athletic arena. Although this is reassuring, universal precautions should always be employed.