June is a month of celebration, recognition, and awareness for the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month, observed every June, commemorates the Stonewall Riots of 1969, a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. It’s a time for members of the community and allies to come together, celebrate diversity, and advocate for equal rights. While there is much to celebrate, it’s also crucial to highlight National HIV Testing Day (NHTD), observed on June 27th. This day serves as an important reminder for everyone, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community, to prioritize their health and get tested for HIV.
Understanding HIV and Its Impact
HIV is a virus that damages your immune system, making it easier for you to get sick. HIV is spread through contact with semen, vaginal fluids, and blood — usually during unprotected sex or through sharing injection needles. Although HIV can affect anybody regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation, it disproportionately affects the LGBTQ+ community. According to the CDC, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) account for nearly 70% of all new HIV diagnoses in the United States. About 1.2 million people in the U.S. are living with HIV, and about 13% of individuals don’t know it and need testing.
The Importance of Early Detection
If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). In the U.S., most people with HIV do not develop AIDS because taking HIV medicine as prescribed stops the progression of the disease. People with HIV who take HIV medicine as prescribed and get and keep an undetectable viral load can live long and healthy lives and will not transmit HIV to their HIV-negative partners through sex. But the only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested.
Planned Parenthood Commitment to Health
Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties (PPOSBC) is committed to serving not only the LGBTQ+ community but everyone by providing effective health care services, resources, and education to help prevent, treat, and support HIV-positive individuals and their partners. Regular HIV testing is a vital tool in combating this epidemic. The CDC recommends that everyone sexually active between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested as a part of routine wellness checks, even if they are in a committed relationship. If an individual is engaging in activities that are at a higher risk of contracting HIV, it is suggested they get tested every 3-6 months.
HIV Testing During Pride Month
The good news is that getting tested for HIV has never been easier. During Pride Month, numerous events and campaigns promote HIV awareness and testing, making it an excellent opportunity to take charge of your sexual health. At PPOSBC, we offer a range of services to help prevent, treat, and support HIV-positive individuals and their partners. We provide:
- HIV Testing
- HIV Test Education
- HIV Referrals
- HIV Case Management
- HIV Prevention (PEP and PrEP)
- Other HIV Services
Embrace PRIDE Through Health
As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s commit to supporting one another through education, empathy, and action. Encourage open discussions about HIV, dispel myths and stigma, and advocate for accessible health care for all. Embrace the spirit of PRIDE by prioritizing regular HIV testing, supporting those living with the virus, and encouraging others to do the same. Your health is your PRIDE.
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