“We often speak about AIDS as if it's going on somewhere else. And for good reason -- this is a virus that has touched lives and decimated communities around the world, particularly in Africa. But often overlooked is the fact that we face a serious HIV/AIDS epidemic of our own -- right here in Washington, D.C., and right here in the United States of America.” These are the words spoken by President Obama on October 30, 2009 at the signing of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009.
With all the worry and discussion over the H1N1 virus, it is easy to forget that HIV/AIDS is still a very real threat to our communities, our loved ones, and maybe even oneself. Fact: Every 9½ minutes, someone in the United States is infected with HIV.
In 2008, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) published estimates indicating that new HIV infections in the United States in 2006 was roughly 40% higher than previously estimated. This indicates the HIV epidemic is – and has been – worse than previously known. Even more unnerving is this: nearly 50% of all people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS are African American. An article entitled "Ending the Epidemic of Heterosexual HIV Transmission Among African Americans" in the November 2009 issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, blames social stigma and economic issues, and society’s inability to solve these problems.
As readers of Heed, you probably hold some moral and spiritual standards. This is a call to action. Help your fellow man/woman break down the socio and economic factors that enable the spread of this disease. Read on to find out simple ways anyone can help.
How do you prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS?
Awareness: December 1st is World AIDS Day. Help spread the word that prevention and regular testing is the best way to protect yourself and others. Click here for videos and banners to share with your friends on FB, TW, and MS.
Testing: Update your HIV/AIDS Status (offline that is) by getting tested. Finding a place to get an anonymous test has never been easier. Do you have internet access? Just type in your zipcode at http://www.nineandahalfminutes.org/index.php. Do you have a cell phone? Text your zip code to KNOWIT (566948) or call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1800-232-4636) for assistance in locating a testing site. Even the president and the first lady were tested.
See the video here.
Prevention: If you are a pregnant, get tested, and don’t breast feed your baby if you test positive. Focus on abstinence, or a monogamous relationship where you both have tested negative. Always use a condom. Never share needles or engage in relations with those who have a history of drug use. Honesty plays a key role in preventing the spread of the virus. Be a mature adult and don’t delay these important discussions.
If I am infected, then what?
Under the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, even those who cannot afford HIV/AIDS care can get help. Please visit the US Department of Health and Human Services website at http://hab.hrsa.gov/findcare/index.htm. The HRSA website has contact info for Ryan White centers, HIV/AIDS housing, treatment centers, and additional information for those dealing with the disease.
Besides your physical health, you should take care of your mental and spiritual being as well. Join support groups. Let God be your strength- it is often in my darkest moments that I feel closer to God.
Bottom line: Just because the media would rather cover H1N1 than HIV, does not mean the threat has diminished. Get tested, practice abstinence, insist on monogamy, be honest in your relationships, and find your strength in God.
This is the third article Amber Lee Scott has written for Heed. She also has a blog dedicated to helping others balance the hustle and bustle of everyday life at A Life in Balance. You can keep up with Mrs. Scott and Project Do What You Love on Facebook and Twitter. |
