Questions and Answers About National HIV Testing Day
National HIV Testing Day is a national campaign held each June 27th. Coordinated by the National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA-US), this campaign helps reach millions of Americans at risk for HIV with the message that “It’s better to know.”
Why is testing important?
The CDC estimates that more than 1,000,000 people in the U.S. are now living with HIV, and approximately 25 percent are unaware of their HIV infection. The decision to take the test is the first step in taking responsibility for your health and the health of others with whom you may be intimately involved. As NAPWA puts it, “Take the test. Take control.”
What happens on National HIV Testing Day?
In observance of this day, there will be many community events that involve state and local organizations. The campaign’s outreach effort includes everyone, but especially targets high-risk populations such as African American and Latino communities; adolescents; young homosexual, bisexual, and transgendered men; women of childbearing age; and people who use contaminated needles to inject drugs.
How can I get involved in National HIV Testing Day?
The National Association of People with AIDS encourages you to participate in the National HIV Testing Day Campaign. For information on ways to get involved please contact NAPWA. Phone: 240- 247-0880. Email: NHTD@NAPWA.org.