Knowing Your HIV Status as Self-Care

While HIV is a chronic illness, it still poses a credible threat to black women. Black women are disproportionately affected by HIV and account for 47% of new HIV infections among women in 2022. The rate of new HIV diagnoses per 100,000 among Black women is about 19.2, which is significantly higher than the rates for White (2.6) and Hispanic/Latino women (7.3). Many factors contribute to the higher rates of HIV among Black women, including stigma, higher rates of poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and higher rates of other sexually transmitted infections.

Why Knowing Your HIV Status Matters

1. Early Detection Saves Lives: HIV can be silent and show no symptoms for years. Knowing your status means you can start treatment sooner, which significantly improves health outcomes and extends life expectancy.

2. Preventing Transmission: If you know you are HIV-positive, you can take steps to prevent the transmission of the virus to others. Effective treatment can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, meaning you cannot transmit the virus to your partner.

3. Empowerment and Control: Knowing your status gives you control over your health. It allows you to make informed decisions about your care and take proactive steps to maintain your well-being.

4. Community Health: By knowing your status, you contribute to the overall health of your community. Reducing the spread of HIV helps protect those we love and care about.

How to Get Tested

Getting tested for HIV is simple and confidential. You can visit your doctor, local clinic, or community health centers that offer free or low-cost testing. Many cities also have mobile testing units that serve local communities.

Overcoming Barriers

We understand that stigma and fear can be significant barriers to getting tested. But remember, knowing your status is a powerful act of self-care and empowerment. It is about taking control of your health and breaking the cycle of misinformation and fear.

Here’s to your health!