National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day – HIV Care Continuum among African Americans

February 6, 2014 - National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day – HIV Care Continuum among African Americans

February 7 marks the 14^th annual observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD). African Americans continue to bear the greatest burden of HIV in the United States. Blacks account for almost half of the more than 1.1 million Americans living with HIV, nearly half of all new HIV infections in the United States and nearly half of all those who have died with AIDS in this country.

A new analysis published today in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report examines the percentages of African Americans diagnosed with HIV infection who were in care and treatment in 2010. Results showed that among blacks who have been diagnosed with HIV, 75 percent were linked to care, 48 percent stayed in care, 46 percent were prescribed antiretroviral therapy, and 35 percent achieved viral suppression (i.e., the virus is under control at a level that helps keep people healthy and reduces the risk of transmission). Black males had lower levels of care and viral suppression than black females, and those who were younger (under the age of 25) had lower levels than those who were older.

We know that treatment can help people with HIV live healthy lives and prevent transmission of the virus to partners. This data reminds us of the importance of ensuring that all HIV-infected African Americans receive the care and treatment they need to protect their health and that of their partners.