February 2, 2010
In an effort to improve the overall health of all Michigan residents, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is holding its 6th annual Black AIDS Awareness Campaign in February and March, supporting this year's theme, "HIV/AIDS Prevention - Black Life is Worth Saving!"
"We cannot ignore the disproportionate burden that HIV/AIDS in Michigan has on African Americans," said Amna Osman, Director of MDCH's Division of Health, Wellness and Disease Control. "The reasons are not directly related to race or ethnicity, but rather to the barriers that face many Black Americans, such as poverty, education and stigma. By combining education and awareness through this campaign, we hope to reduce the disproportionate impact this epidemic has within the African American community and highlight the need for those at risk to be tested."
The campaign begins February 1, continues through March 15, and includes the 10th Annual Observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on February 7, a national HIV testing and treatment mobilization initiative that is designed to build the capacity and increase awareness, participation and support for HIV prevention, care and treatment among Black Americans. The campaign also encompasses the 5th Annual National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on March 10 and the 21st Annual Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS (March 7- 13).
MDCH data clearly illustrates the impact of AIDS on African Americans. While representing only 14 % of Michigan's general population, as of October 1, 2009, it is reported that 59 % of persons living with HIV/AIDS are African American, with the Detroit Metro Area housing 65 % of those HIV positive.
The rate of persons living with HIV infection is 9.3 times higher among African Americans than among whites in Michigan. MDCH also estimates in its Annual Review of HIV Trends of July 2009 that this is the fourth report showing an increase in new diagnoses among teens, 13-19 years of age, with 85% of them being African American.
Events are planned across Michigan to raise awareness and promote HIV testing among Michigan residents. Health awareness fairs and HIV counseling and testing are among the many events that are included in this campaign. To find an HIV testing site in your area, a planned event, or to obtain additional information on HIV/AIDS, please call the Michigan AIDS Hotline at 1-800-872-AIDS (2437).
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