December 1st is World AIDS Day, a chance for people to work actively and collaboratively with others around the world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and help us get closer to the goal of an AIDS-free generation. I believe that it is possible! I can also see the conversation years from now… “remember that disease back in the day that use to have the world so scared?” We can make this happen but we must be educated about this disease and we MUST get tested! Here are my top 5 reasons!
- In Houston…There are over 27,650 individuals known living with HIV/AIDS in Houston/Harris County
Every 7 hours one person in Houston is infected with HIV
African Americans account for 54% of HIV cases in Houston/Harris County
Heterosexual contact accounts for 26% of reported HIV cases in Houston/Harris County and male-to-male contact accounts for 40%
2. Getting tested takes less than 20 minutes!
3. National Stats…
There are 1.2 million people living with HIV in the United States. One in five are unaware of their infection
Every 9 ½ minutes someone is infected with HIV in the U.S.
African Americans make up only 13.6% of the U.S. population, yet account for 52% of all new HIV/AIDS cases and 44% of new infections
Young gay and bisexual black men are the most severely affected subpopulation for HIV infection
4. You want to be around for your family and friends right? HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence IF you are tested and properly treated once you test positive!
5. NO NEEDLES! I am not a fan of needles, shots, flu shots…any that hurts! The test for HIV/AIDS is a simple swab in the mouth! Make your appointment today! Contact AIDS Foundation Houston below!
AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc.
6260 Westpark Dr. Suite 100
Houston, TX 77057
713-623-6796 Main