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Blacks make up 13 percent of the U.S. population but, by the end of 2005, accounted for half of all new HIV/AIDS diagnoses in the United States.

Today marks the seventh year of the annual observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD). What are the main causes of HIV/AIDS among blacks in the United States? For men, the highest incidences come from unprotected sexual relationships, both gay and straight, and then intravenous drug use. For women, unprotected sexual relationships are first, followed by intravenous drug use.

The NBHAAD, organized by the Strategic Leadership Council (SLC), seeks to motivate others to take action against HIV/AIDS through education, participation, support, and of course, prevention awareness. Their mission, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS among blacks by encouraging the importance of getting tested and knowing your HIV status, educating others on the different forms of transmission, helping others stay involved in their local communities, and encouraging individuals newly diagnosed or currently living with HIV to actively pursue treatment.

The SLC has a specific list of outcomes it hopes to accomplish through NBHAAD. First, the members of the SLC hope to witness a significant level of HIV/AIDS awareness and participation from outside sources such as print, TV and radio outlets. To that end, the SLC hopes to see an increase in accurate, up-to-date reporting on the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

The SLC also would like to see professional institutions contribute by sharing valuable resources at the national and local levels. In addition, an increase in the number of research facilities providing supplemental resources and support assistance to health departments, community-based organizations and stakeholders serving black communities will help bring about a sense of social urgency. Lastly, members of the SLC hope to see an increase in the number of blacks who are at high risk receiving and acquiring satisfactory HIV counseling, testing and other HIV prevention, treatment and care services. For more information, click here.

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