HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically CD4 T cells. Without treatment, HIV can lead to AIDS, in which the immune system is severely compromised.

Black Americans represent approximately 13% of the U.S. population but account for about 42% of new HIV diagnoses. These disparities are driven by poverty, lack of healthcare access, stigma, and structural inequality, not individual behavior.

Prevention: PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is more than 99% effective at preventing HIV transmission. Ask your provider about PrEP. Treatment: Modern antiretroviral therapy allows people with HIV to live long, healthy lives and achieve an undetectable viral load (U=U, Undetectable = Untransmittable).