SOCIAL, POLITICAL & CULTURAL CONTEXt

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HIV – A Scientific and Sexual Revolution
The play is set during an important time of change in the scientific understanding of HIV. In 2017, based on findings from multiple research projects across the world, scientists, activists and NGOs gained consensus on what is now known as Undetectable=Untransmittable, or U=U.

Research conclusively confirmed that people with HIV on effective medication, with an ‘undetectable’ viral load (less than fifty viral copies in 1mL of blood), cannot pass on the virus to others.

Along with increased access to testing and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), medication taken before sex that offer excellent protection against transmission, U=U has transformed the lives of people living with or affected by HIV.

For more, visit:
www.unaids.org/en/resources/presscentre/featurestories/2018/july/undetectable-untransmittable

Societal Prejudice and Minority Stress
Despite growing acceptance in the UK, LGBTQ+ people are still more likely to experience multiple disadvantages:

• 1 in 3 people with HIV face stigma from their family, friends or workplace (Terrence Higgins Trust)

• Half of LGBTQ+ from the global majority face racism from within the LGBTQ+ community (Stonewall)

• 1 in 4 gay and 1 in 3 bisexual people suffer domestic abuse after age 16 (Stonewall)

• Gay men are 3 times more likely to use illegal substances than heterosexual men (Crime Survey, England and Wales)

• Half of LGBTQ+ people have faced depression, 3 in 5 have faced anxiety (Stonewall)

• 1 in 8 LGBTQ+ people aged 18-24 have attempted to end their life (Stonewall)

Inspired by Nathaniel’s lived experience and other stories gathered through outreach, Toxic opens a non-judgmental dialogue about the impact of HIV, homophobia, toxic gender norms and racism on queer relationships.

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GLOSSARY

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HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
A virus that attacks the immune system, present in bodily fluids. Transmitted though unprotected sexual contact, blood to blood (e.g. sharing needles) and mother to baby during birth/ breastfeeding (this last way is rare thanks to screening and
medication).

Advanced HIV
A less stigmatised term now often used in place of AIDS.

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
Medication taken before sex to prevent transmission of HIV. Highly effective if taken as prescribed. Available on the NHS in England, Scotland and Wales. Condoms remain an effective method of preventing HIV transmission.

U=U (Undetectable=Untransmittable)
A person who has been on HIV treatment for over six months, whose viral load is ‘undetectable’, cannot pass the virus on to others.

SSRIs
A type of anti-depressant medication commonly prescribed in the UK.

For up-to-date information on HIV always seek advice from reputable websites. We recommend:
www.tht.org.uk | www.ght.org.uk | www.nat.org.uk | www.unaids.org