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Highlights in Minority Health
 June 27th, 2003

National HIV Testing Day June 27, 2003

In this country, we are experiencing a national health crisis and that crisis is HIV/AIDS. Did you know that the CDC estimates that between 850,000 and 950,000 Americans are living with HIV yet nearly 180,000 to 280,000 are unaware they are infected? Clearly, HIV/AIDS has had a devastating impact on all Americans, but most especially among those within communities of color. And it is in the shadow of these grim statistics, that I would like to emphasize the importance of National HIV Testing Day on June 27th.

This annual observance is set aside towards enabling people to gain the knowledge they need to take control of their health and their lives. It is also an invaluable opportunity to dispel the myths and the fear that often keeps many from coming forward for HIV testing. Testing is important because early detection of the disease allows for early treatment, prolonging life and improving the quality of life. In addition, testing can help prevent the spread of the disease through awareness of one's HIV status.

I can proudly say that our Department has played a leading role in ramping up the fight against HIV/AIDS on our shores and abroad. This administration's commitment is unprecedented, including:

red triangle Increased spending for domestic HIV prevention and care and treatment by 7 percent in next year's budget.
red triangle Approved rapid HIV testing technology and implemented steps to make it widely accessible to healthcare providers, and community and faith-based organizations.
red triangle Signed legislation launching an emergency effort to provide $15 billion over five years to fight AIDS in Africa and the Caribbean.
red triangle Announced a new CDC initiative called, "Advancing HIV Prevention: New Strategies for a Changing Epidemic," that is aimed at reducing the number of new HIV infections each year in the United States.

I challenge each and everyone one of us to use June 27th as a vital opportunity to raise awareness of the disease within our nation, communities, and homes.

Let's rededicate and recommit ourselves to the prevention of HIV/AIDS. Too many loved ones have lost their battle to this devastating disease.

To learn more about National HIV Testing Day
 visit www.hivtest.org or www.nhtd.org

For more information about HIV/AIDS
call the National CDC AIDS Hotline at 1-800-342-AIDS (English)
1-800 344-SIDA (en Espanol), 1-800-243-7889 (TTY).

Source:
 

  Message from the Secretary of Health and Human Services Wednesday, June 25th, 2003


 
 

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Last Updated on November 03, 2004
Office of Minority Health

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