HIV Test for Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

Taking an HIV Test is an important step in facing up to the risk of the disease – in 2001 black leaders in America organised the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.

Taking an HIV test isn’t an easy step. It means facing up to the risk that you may be carrying the infection. But not taking an HIV test is even harder – if you do have HIV but don’t know (and therefore don’t seek treatment) then you are not only putting others at risk, but you could be excluding yourself from valuable HIV treatment and medication. In America, black people are still disproportionately affected by the HIV virus. Black men make up 56% of all new cases of HIV in the male population.

HIV test shows black men at risk

The figures from HIV tests show black men are more vulnerable, but it isn’t just HIV, research shows that 80% of male gonorrhoea cases are in black males. But whereas the assumption may be that black men are putting themselves at risk or need to change sexual behaviour, a 2007 article in the American Journal of Public Health reported that black people were no different to non-blacks when it came to high risk behaviour. Its thought where black men live contributes to the risk of acquiring HIV or an STD.

Taking an HIV test, raising awareness

If more people are conscious about taking a regular HIV test, this could help keep awareness of the risks on the agenda. The National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is marked in America as charities and lobby groups come together and offer a free HIV test to African-Americans across the US. The day encourages education, and prompts people to get HIV tested and get treated. The HIV virus continues to devastate black communities, and despite low levels of awareness in some places in the world, including the UK, the risks are still high for people of all colours, ethnic groups and ages.

Raising awareness of the HIV virus

It can take just one mistake or oversight to contract the HIV virus, but the issues of poverty, education and social stigma all play a part for many people reluctant to face up to the risks or contemplate taking a HIV test. Awareness days are hoped to prompt action, reaching out to those most vulnerable to the virus in society.

Looking for an HIV test? CITYDOC can help
For a complete range of STD tests, including an HIV test, London based CITYDOC is ideally and discreetly located in the City of London for fast, professional and discreet service. Based at the junction of City Road and Finsbury Square, CITYDOC is open for walk-in patients or you can book your appointment by contacting the practice now on 0207 256 8668. The clinic offers full sexual screens for men and women. If you are thinking about an HIV Test, contact CITYDOC today.

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