IDPH to host events for 'National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day' | Events

(KFVS) - In recognition of "National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day" on February 7, the Illinois Department of Public Health is hosting several events through its Center for Minority Health Services encouraging HIV testing, and providing education and resources about the disease in black communities statewide.

According to the IDPH, blacks are disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS globally and locally. Although 13 percent of the U.S. population, blacks account for 45 percent of all new HIV infections. Illinois has the 7th highest number of diagnosed HIV infections, and is 5th nationwide in the estimated number of AIDS cases. Blacks are about 14 percent of the Illinois population but account for nearly half of all HIV/AIDS cases.

“IDPH remains committed to facilitating access to HIV testing as well as providing access to education and awareness about the disease,” said IDPH Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck. “We fully support efforts like "National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day" that mobilize communities to empower themselves in the effort to eradicate the spread of HIV/AIDS.”

"National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day" was created in 2000 to mobilize and provide greater access to testing, health resources and education about the disease in an effort to reverse its occurrence in the black community. This year’s theme is “Our Ancestors Fought that we might be free – even from HIV.”

IDPH, through the Center for Minority Health Services, remains committed to educating communities and dispelling myths around HIV and AIDS by facilitating opportunities for free and confidential HIV testing, and assisting those who are HIV positive to connect with care and treatment services. In 2005, IDPH launched BASUAH – "Brothers and Sisters United Against HIV/AIDS" – to promote HIV/AIDS awareness among communities of color through education, collaboration and community engagement.

For more information, please call the IDPH HIV/AIDS and STD hotline at 1-800-243-2437 and visit the IDPH website at http://www.idph.state.il.us/aids/default.htm.

Copyright 2013 KFVS. All rights reserved.