Why is it so important to know one's HIV status?

The benefits of knowing one’s HIV status are well established. It provides an entry point for HIV positive individuals to access antiretroviral treatment (ART). ART has dramatically improved the quality and duration of life for many Kenyans living with HIV, and may also reduce the risk of transmission by decreasing viral load. HCT affords people tested the opportunity to access other HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment services. For the majority of Kenyans who are not infected, HCT is a first step towards risk reduction, linking clients with prevention services.