Today, we recognize the impact of HIV and AIDS and take action to raise awareness within the U.S. Latino community. While making up just 16.7 percent of the population, Latinos account for 19 percent of all people living with HIV and 22 percent of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S. – a significant burden of the epidemic. As a result of late testing, in 2010 more than one-third of Latinos diagnosed with HIV progress to AIDS within 12 months of their initial HIV diagnosis.
In 2011, most new HIV diagnoses among Hispanics and Latinos occurred in men: more than 8 out of 10 diagnoses were men, and 79 percent of those diagnoses were a result of male-to-male sexual contact. Hispanic and Latino men and women are disproportionately impacted by HIV than their white counterparts. These facts are an eye-opening reminder of why it is critical to understand HIV where you live, and know your status.
This year, AIDSVu has partnered with the Latino Commission on AIDS to develop an infographic that visualizes the impact of HIV among Latinos.
In order to combat the HIV epidemic, we must commit to act:
- Get tested
- Seek treatment
- Know the facts
How will you commit to act? Visit AIDSVu.org to find your nearest testing or care services locations, and learn more about how you can participate in National Latino AIDS Awareness Day.
