As the year comes to a close, we at AIDSVu are proud to reflect on the activities we’ve undertaken in 2023 to address the HIV epidemic and raise awareness about the ongoing challenges affected communities face. From impactful data releases to new partnerships and new initiatives, our commitment to providing crucial information on the HIV epidemic remains stronger than ever.
Below are a few highlights from this year!
Updated PrEP Use Data for 2022 Reveals Disparities
We continued our focus on PrEP equity by releasing updated pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use data for 2022. These data shed light on significant disparities in PrEP utilization, particularly among Black and Hispanic individuals, as well as in the Southern region of the United States. These findings underscored the urgent need for targeted interventions and increased PrEP accessibility to bridge these gaps.
Interactive Maps and Data Visualization
AIDSVu’s core mission is to provide accessible data on the HIV epidemic. In 2023, we released updated maps and visualizations for 2021, including HIV prevalence, the HIV care continuum, and social determinants of health. We also partnered with CDC’s Medical Monitoring Project (MMP) to include data on people experiencing homelessness/unstable housing and HIV-related stigma.
Fine Geographic Insight with City-Level HIV Data
To provide a granular view of how the HIV epidemic affects cities and neighborhoods across the U.S., we released updated 2021 ZIP Code-level HIV data and interactive maps for over 50 cities. This level of detail allows us to illustrate the geographic nuances of the epidemic, and this year, we added Kansas City, MO, and St. Louis, MO, to our list of featured cities.
Partnering to Raise Awareness
Throughout the year, AIDSVu partnered with many organizations to observe more than a dozen HIV Awareness Days. These included:
- National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
- National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
- National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
- National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
- National Transgender HIV Testing Day
- National Asian & Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
- National HIV Testing Day
- Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
- National Faith HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
- National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day
- National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
- National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day
- World AIDS Day
By celebrating these awareness days, we were able to highlight the distinct challenges faced by different communities impacted by the HIV epidemic and advocate for increased HIV testing, prevention, and care.
Expert Insights and Informative Infographics
We remained committed to education and awareness by publishing 16 Q&A interviews with notable HIV experts, activists, and policymakers. These interviews offered valuable insights into the current state of the HIV epidemic and strategies for addressing it. Additionally, we created over 100 infographics that break down AIDSVu data on critical topics, making complex information more accessible and engaging for a broader audience. Some notable interviews this year included:
- Mike Webb on LGBTQ+ Political Activism and HIV Criminalization
- Luis Mares on Community Outreach and Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of NLAAD
- Dr. Rasheeta Chandler on PrEP and Black Women
Looking ahead to 2024
As we look back on the year, we are grateful for our partners’ support, our team’s dedication, and our audience’s engagement. AIDSVu remains committed to our mission of providing crucial data on the HIV epidemic, raising awareness, and working towards a future where HIV is no longer a public health threat. With your continued support, we are confident that we can make meaningful progress against HIV in the years to come. Thank you for joining us in this important mission, and we look forward to 2024!
