What is a common characteristic of AIDS?

AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is characterized by a significant weakening of the immune system. Individuals with AIDS suffer from an inability to effectively combat infections and diseases due to the destruction of CD4 T cells, which are crucial for a healthy immune response. As a result, those with AIDS become susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain types of cancers that would not typically pose a threat to individuals with a functioning immune system.

This characteristic stands in stark contrast to the other options. For instance, a strong immune response to infections and rapid healing of wounds are indicative of a healthy immune system, which is not the case in individuals diagnosed with AIDS. Additionally, low blood pressure is not a defining feature of AIDS and can be associated with various other health conditions. Thus, the inability to fight off infections and diseases captures the essence of what characterizes AIDS.