Time: 2024-08-21
Southern HIV / AIDS Awareness Day is celebrated on August 20 to shed light on the factors contributing to higher HIV rates in the Southern U.S. These rates are influenced by social determinants of health , such as the lack of public transportation in spread - out Southern communities , making it challenging for residents to access regular medical services like HIV prevention medication . RHHD Health Educator Darcy Strayer emphasizes the importance of addressing disparities in HIV diagnoses , especially among Black Americans who make up more than 56 % of the population in the South . Black women , both cis and trans , accounted for over 47 % of new HIV diagnoses in 2022 . To combat these disparities , organizations like the Southern AIDS Coalition are working to ensure that barriers like health insurance and transportation do not hinder access to HIV / AIDS prevention and treatment resources.
In South Carolina , almost 15,000 individuals , including children and teens , are living with HIV infection or AIDS , according to the state 's Department of Public health . Palmetto Community Care , an organization offering free HIV testing , highlights the challenges of testing in the Deep South , where eight out of the top ten states with new HIV diagnoses per 100,000 people are located . Despite these challenges , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends HIV testing for all patients aged 13 to 64 as part of routine health care . Palmetto Community Care not only provides free testing but also offers incentives like gift cards to encourage testing on Southern HIV / AIDS Awareness Day.
Palmetto Community Care spokesperson Richard Reams emphasizes the importance of discussing HIV / AIDS , particularly on Southern AIDS Awareness Day , to address the layers that make testing challenging for individuals . The organization advocates for testing across all demographics and aims to break down any stigma associated with HIV and AIDS diagnoses . Ivy Hill , the Director of Gender Justice for the Campaign for Southern Equality , encourages people to get tested and learn about their options , emphasizing that a positive diagnosis is not a death sentence . With advancements in medication , HIV is manageable , and individuals can lead long , healthy lives with proper treatment.
To find out their options , individuals can undergo HIV / AIDS testing at Palmetto Community Care on Tuesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. , as well as on other days when the organization is open . It is essential to prioritize regular testing and access available resources to combat the spread of HIV / AIDS and reduce stigma surrounding the disease.
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