Savannah is one of more than 800 cities across the country that will sponsor programs from February 8 - 10 to call attention to the problem of HIV/AIDS and seek solutions to stop the epidemic.
February 7 is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD), an HIV testing and treatment community mobilization initiative designed to encourage African Americans across the country to get educated, get tested, get involved, and get treated.
While African Americans represent approximately 13% of the U.S. Population, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the group accounts for 49% of the nation's AIDS cases. In Savannah's Coastal Health District, 72% of people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS are African American.
In 2006, both African American men and women had the highest HIV death rates per 100,000, ages 25-34 and 35-44. HIV was also the fourth leading cause of death for African American men and third leading cause of death for African American females, ages 25 - 44. Unfortunately, many of those who are infected are unaware of their status and may unknowingly transit the virus to others.
Initiatives planned in recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in Savannah include:
FREE CONFIDENTIAL HIV TESTING
J C Lewis Primary Health Care Center, Inc.
125 Fahm Street
(Downtown Savannah-Near Greyhound Bus Station)
Monday, February 8, 2010 - Wednesday, February 10, 2010
7 am - 7 pm
For more information about National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day call Union Mission, Inc. (912) 495-8887 or visit www.blackaidsday.org .
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