HIV Testing Day Sept. 27

Reducing the impact of HIV/AIDS is a top priority of the CDC according to its website. National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a national effort founded by the National Association of People with AIDS to raise awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic among gay and bisexual men. And while NAPWA closed its doors earlier this year, this annual effort continues and is held on Sept. 27 every year and promoted by the CDC.
Gay and bisexual men remain among the most affected populations by HIV, and according to the CDC they currently account for 61 percent of all new HIV infections as of 2009. Because of this increased risk, the CDC recommends at least an annual test for HIV. The CDC website states, “CDC suggests more frequent testing (every 3 to 6 months) for gay and bisexual men at high risk–including those who have multiple or anonymous partners, who have sex in conjunction with illicit drug use, or whose partners participate in these activities.”
Act Against AIDS is a 5-year multifaceted campaign working to combat complacency. Two recent campaigns by the CDC and White House targeting gay and bisexual men include Testing Makes Us Stronger and encourages black gay and bisexual men aged 18 to 44 to get tested. A second campaign, Let’s Stop HIV Together, raises awareness about HIV. The campaign works to encourage gay and bisexual men to learn about HIV and seek out testing.
The public can learn about testing sites near them by visiting the National HIV and STD Testing resource site or call 800-CDC-INFO (232-4636). Visit http://www.cdc.gov/features/ngmhaad for extensive information and resources.