On September 27, National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, we recognize the disproportionate impact of HIV on gay and bisexual men and take steps to fight the epidemic. According to the latest CDC data, gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) comprise approximately 2 percent of the U.S. population – yet account for nearly two-thirds of all new HIV diagnoses.
Today, we have more tools to fight the HIV epidemic than ever before: a nationwide strategy, improved HIV tests, and better medication that can help prevent the spread of HIV. President Obama has said we have the potential to see an AIDS-free generation; to achieve that goal, more must be done. One of the first steps we can all take is to get an HIV test.
The CDC recommends that people at higher risk, including gay and bisexual men, should get tested at least once per year. AIDSVu can help people find a local testing site. It’s easy – just visit AIDSVu.org/testing, enter your ZIP Code, and get details about testing sites near you including the phone number, address, hours, and services offered. We’ll even show you their locations on AIDSVu’s interactive map.
In recognition of National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, AIDSVu has created a special infographic that can be easily shared through social media. Help us increase awareness of the continued impact of HIV on gay and bisexual men in the U.S. and how we can prevent the spread of HIV.
Days like National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day serve as a cultural reminder of this duty: Get tested today for a healthier tomorrow.
