Know your status only by testing (information on testing in Finland)

Current approach to HIV testing is to make it a normal rather than exceptional event. Tests are being offered in a wide range of settings and technologies are used that are more effective in identifying recent infections.

These developments may have a number of advantages. The most important will be to allow more people who are living with HIV, but unaware of the fact, to have the benefit of appropriate treatment, care and support.

Effective treatment means that most people living with hiv in Finland can lead long, healthy and active lives. The benefits of treatment are the greatest, when it can be started promptly. Early diagnosis gives people also a chance to reduce their risk of transmitting the virus to others. For people who find out that they are hiv - negative, testing can have advantages in terms of certainty and peace of mind. In stable relationships, testing hiv - negative can allow partners to make more informed decisions about their sexual risks.