blog*AIDS*gov
Original Article: 1.usa.gov/1Of6PXH
March 20, 2015, is National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day ?. This day is an opportunity for Native people across the United States to learn about HIV and AIDS, encourage HIV counseling and testing in Native communities, and help decrease the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.
On March 20, we recognize the impact of HIV and AIDS on American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians (collectively referred to as Native people) through the observance of National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day ?. This national observance, now in its 9th year, is our opportunity to raise awareness of the risks of HIV to Native people, help communities understand what contributes to those risks, and encourage people to get tested for HIV.
Overall, approximately 14% of the 1.2 million Americans with HIV do not know they are infected. Among American Indian/Alaska Natives this figure is 19%, and among Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders, the figure is 25%.1 CDC recommends that all adults and adolescents get tested for HIV at least once as a routine part of medical care, while those at increased risk should get an HIV test at least every year. Sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) might benefit from HIV testing every 3 to 6 months. Women should get an HIV test each time they are pregnant.
Full text of article available at link below: 1.usa.gov/1Of6PXH
