The prevalence of HIV among African American women in high risk areas has been greatly underestimated, according to a recently released study. The HIV prevention trials network (HPTN) conducted the study in association with the National Institute of health and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.; the conclusion of the study showed disturbing results. The findings were based on information collected from 2099 women from six geographical areas known for poverty and high rates of HIV.
Women compose nearly a quarter of new HIV infections, and 66% of these women are African American. This trend is interesting given the fact that African American women comprise only 14% of the female US population.
Another significant finding is the high number of women who were found to have HIV infection at the time they enrolled in the study, (32 women or 1.5%). These women were previously unaware of their HIV status, highlighting the need for better access to care, prevention strategies and the very important task of increasing HIV awareness.
A simple blood test is all it takes to diagnose HIV infection. There are other methods available, like using saliva, but the blood test is generally thought to be the gold standard. The cost of an HIV test is usually nominal and the results can give you peace of mind as well as the knowledge you have taken responsibility for your health and wellbeing.
Source : http://www.labbocaraton.com/std-testing/hiv-testing.html
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