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CDC Heightens its Response to HIV in African Americans

African Americans account for approximately half of the estimated one million Americans living with HIV, yet make up only 13 percent of the U.S. population. As well, one quarter of Americans living with HIV—more than 250,000—do not realize they are infected. Targeted funding, increased testing, and greater collaboration with African American leaders are part of CDC’s multipronged approach to address this public health crisis.

An enhanced collaborative approach was the driving force behind the March 2007 launch of the “Heightened National Response to the HIV/AIDS Crisis among African Americans.” More than 80 influential African American leaders met with CDC leadership in Atlanta to hear about the impact of the epidemic, discuss how their sectors could contribute to the effort, and make leadership commitments. Their commitment to combat HIV among African Americans has lead to several unique initiatives, such as the one with TV and radio host Big Tigger.

The Heightened Response to HIV has been bolstered by CDC’s $35 million that was awarded in 2007 to state and local health departments to increase HIV testing opportunities among populations disproportionately affected by HIV, primarily African Americans. Supporting CDC’s Health Protection Goal of better preparing people for emerging health threats, especially those at greatest risk of health disparities, 23 states and major metropolitan areas received awards ranging from $690,000 to $5.4 million. The increased funds are providing testing for more than one million persons and increasing early diagnosis of HIV for as many as 20,000 people who are unaware that they are infected.

The availability of HIV testing primarily in clinical settings, such as emergency departments, community health centers, clinics, and correctional health facilities, ensures that more persons know their HIV status. HIV testing activities are also being integrated with screening and prevention activities for other infections, such as viral hepatitis, sexually transmitted diseases, and tuberculosis. Integrating these services can significantly improve the health of populations disproportionately affected by HIV and at higher risk for these infections.

CDC’s 2006 Revised Recommendations for HIV Testing of Adults, Adolescents, and Pregnant Women in Health-Care Settings make voluntary HIV screening a part of routine medical care for all patients aged 13 to 64 years. The recommendations complement the efforts to ensure people know their status.

For more information on HIV prevention, visit www.cdc.gov/hiv.