According to CDC’s statistics, in 2018 more than 7,000 women received an HIV diagnosis in the U.S. with 261,800 living with the disease. The good news is that these numbers have been declining. The risk factors for contracting HIV are vaginal sex, anal sex, and sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment. Condoms are a great way to reduce your risk of sexually transmitted diseases including AIDS if you are engaging in sex and don’t know the history of your partner. If you have been exposed, it is essential to be tested for proper diagnosis, so treatment can start.

It is so important to talk about this disease to remove the stigma and fear of discrimination associated with it. Black and Hispanic women are the most vulnerable populations and have accounted for the largest share of new diagnoses. 14% of transgender women have HIV and many go untreated. Poverty and medical mistrust play a large part in obtaining proper medical treatment as well. March 10th is a day to bring HIV to the forefront and combat this disease together.

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