HIV infection in athletes: What are the risks? Who can compete?

The activities of athletes and personnel who provide their medical care may place them at slightly greater risk for infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) than their nonathletic peers. At this point, there is no reason to disallow participation of athletes who are HIV- infected. Thus, sports physicians need to assume that they are at risk for accidental exposure to HIV and use appropriate precautions. Most important, physicians can educate athletes, coaches, and trainers to practice 'safe' athletics and medical care to minimize the risks of exposure to and transmission of HIV. Testing for HIV can be encouraged for athletes who may be at risk and should be done for any athlete who specifically requests it. Physicians should encourage further study to clarify the specific issues and risks of HIV infection created by athletic competition and prepare to deal with the changing knowledge about HIV and AIDS.