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Black HIV/AIDS Q&A: Ending the Epidemic

Black HIV/AIDS Q&A: Ending the Epidemic

Today on National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and every day, we must acknowledge and address the imbalance of higher HIV rates for Black Americans to improve the health of our communities. Read our Q&A with Mary’s Center’s Public Health Outreach Services team to learn more:

How is the Black community affected by HIV/AIDS?

In many ways, Black communities have been hit harder by HIV than any other group in the United States. Although they represent only 12% of the U.S. population, Black people account for a much larger share of HIV diagnoses (43%), people estimated to be living with HIV disease (42%), and deaths among people with HIV (44%).  Within the Black community, Black women, youth, and gay and bisexual men have been affected the most.

Why is HIV/AIDS impacting the Black community more than other groups?

A number of challenges contribute to the epidemic among Black people, including poverty, lack of access to health care, higher rates of some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), lack of awareness of HIV status, and stigma.

What do HIV statistics look like for the Black community in DC?

From 2015 – 2019, 70% of newly diagnosed HIV cases in DC were in the Black community, though Black people make up less than 50% of the total DC population.

Most of the cases among Black people were in  men who have sex with men and those who inject drugs, as well as heterosexual women. Find more statistics from DC Health here.

What can I do to address this public health concern?

It’s important for people of all walks of life to know that HIV does not discriminate. Make sure you understand how HIV is transmitted and how to practice safe sex. You also need to know your HIV status and start treatment if positive. Everyone with HIV can live a healthy life, but it starts with getting the appropriate medical support. 

What HIV services does Mary’s Center offer?

Our sexual health clinic is open to existing and new  participants, has no registration process, requires no insurance, and has no restrictions on access. We offer FREE same-day HIV and STI testing and education. If you receive a positive result, we can provide same-day treatment for certain STIs for you and your partner. We can also connect you to HIV care, labs, and medications if needed, and we can educate you and get you started on PrEP, an HIV prevention medication.

How do I contact Mary’s Center if I need to address a sexual health concern?

Mary’s Center is ready to partner with you on your health journey. You can contact one of the Sexual Health team members using the information below. We ask that you call before you walk in so we can determine the safest way to test and treat you.

  • Call 202-699-2163 to talk with an English-speaking Sexual Health Coordinator
  • Call 202-744-1971 to talk with a Spanish-speaking Sexual Health Coordinator
  • You can also send us an email at BeSafeBeSure@maryscenter.org