World AIDs Day

OurselvesBlack is recognizing World AIDs Day. Why? Because our communities are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDs and psychological and social issues are central to risk, treatment and prevention. Here are 3 quick ways to help prevent transmission and promote treatment.

1.     Know the Numbers - In 2016, African Americans accounted for 44% of HIV diagnoses, though they comprise 12% of the U.S. population

2.     Get Tested – Approximately 15% of African-Americans with HIV, which is highly treatable, do not know they have it.

3.     If high-risk and HIV negative, consider PrEP – PrEP is a medication prevention method. Daily use can lower the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 90% and from injection drug use by more than 70%.  The cost of prep is covered by many insurance plans, and a commercial medication assistance program provides free PreEP to people with limited income and no insurance to cover PrEP care.