National Gay Men's HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day is on September 27th. This is a day to spread awareness on HIV testing, prevention and treatment in gay and bisexual men in hope to end the stigma surrounding HIV. Gay and bisexual men are affected by HIV at a disproportionate rate compared to others. This has been caused by many things such as stigma, homophobia, limited access to resources and medical care.
According to the CDC, “Of the 36,801 new HIV diagnoses in the US and dependent areas in 2019, 69% (25,552) were among gay and bisexual men.” They also recorded the racial ethnicities of these gay and bisexual men and found the following statistics: Black/ African American men made up 37% and Hispanic/ Latino men made up 32% compared to White men who made up 25%. This shows that racial disparities still exist within this community.
HIV diagnosis, however, in gay and bisexual men has decreased 9% from 2015-2019. The CDC states that, "Compared to all people with diagnosed HIV have higher viral suppression rates." This shows that methods of prevention, education, and ending stigma is working to not only decrease HIV diagnosis each year but to also eventually end the HIV epidemic.
At Matthew 25, we are determined in our fight against the stigma of HIV. We are diligent in our prevention efforts so that one day we will see an end to the HIV epidemic. We will continue getting those who are living with HIV into care and working with them towards the goal of reaching an undetectable viral load. This is our commitment to the communities that we serve and those that we will serve in the future!
If you have any questions about our resources or would like to schedule a free and confidential HIV test, please call (866) 607-6590. You can also email treed@matthew25clinic.org for more information!
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