This article is part ofHealth Divide: HIV, a destination in our Health Divide series.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)is a highly infectious virus that attacks the body’s immune system.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
This disease has destroyed Black communities, but recent data show some encouraging signs.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
The death rate for Black Americans with HIV/AIDS is nearly twice the rate of White and Latino Americans.
This racial disparity has continued for decades.
Of the 1.1 million people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States, 476,100 are Black.
A higher proportion of these heterosexual men are Black.
This contributed to rumors and misunderstandings that HIV is solely a disease of LGBTQ+ communities.
This has created a lack of knowledge about the virus and the importance of using protection among heterosexual men.
Of note, some subpopulations within racial and ethnic minority groups are more affected by HIV than others.
Recap
Black men have been disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic.
Due to these factors, myths and misinformation have increased the stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV and AIDS.
Most hospitals, clinics, and Planned Parenthood offices offer free or low-cost HIV testing.
And routine STI screening is covered by most insurance plans and Title X.
Prevention Efforts
Prevention challenges loom in the fight against HIV infection.
Recent CDC data suggests that White people are six times more likely to be prescribed PreP than Black people.
When taken daily, these meds can reduce HIV transmission by 99%.
Addressing systemic issues, while also promoting healthy sexual behaviors is key to decreasing HIV transmission.
The following tips may lower your risk of getting an STI:
Prevention is the best protection against HIV.
Many more privately owned grassroots organizations are addressing concerns every day.
BAI was founded by three Black gay doctors, including one who is living with HIV.
The U.S. government has shared its desire to end HIV in the nation by 2030.
This campaign is part of the Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. initiative.
HIV impacts Black men on a physical, mental, and emotional level.
Frequently Asked Questions
People with HIV live substantially fewer healthy years than people without HIV.
On average, they die 3.3 years earlier than Whites living with HIV.
Finding a quiet, private place to talk and allowing your partner to express themselves is key.
Imagine how your partner may react and consider making a safety plan just in case.
Write down what they might say, and then think about what you might say in response.
Wearing condoms properly and every time you have sex is a highly effective method to protect you against HIV.
Combining condom use and PreP is 99% effective against HIV.
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to restoring your health and limiting the spread of the virus.
Planned Parenthood, local community clinics, and many hospitals are good starting points to start testing and treatment.
HIV.gov.Impact on racial and ethnic minorities.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.CDC fact sheet: HIV among African Americans.
109(8):1131-1137. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2019.305121
Yerly S, Hirschel B.Diagnosing acute HIV infection.Exp Rev Anti-Infective Ther.
