HIV affects the Black community

The African American AIDS Awareness Action Alliance (A6) and End HIV Oregon co-developed an advertising campaign. This campaign encourages Black and African American people in the Portland area to get tested for HIV. It encourages them to start talking about sexual health to make it a normal part of life. Early testing allows people to get the health care they need to prevent HIV. If they are infected, early testing helps them get treatment and protect partners. It helps people live long, healthy, sexually active lives.

New HIV infections are on the rise in parts of Oregon. Rates of syphilis, gonorrhea and other STI are also high.

Black and African American people in Oregon have the highest rate of new HIV infections by race. Their rate is 20.1 per 100,000 people. The overall state rate is 4.7 per 100,000 people.

Black men who are gay, bisexual or have sexual contact with men (MSCM) have especially high rates of HIV infection. They may benefit from resources like PrEP. PrEP is a daily pill or periodic injection. It is 99% effective at preventing HIV transmission from sex.

Community and structural factors play big roles in the HIV epidemic among Black Americans. These include access to healthcare and economic resources. Other factors are infection rates within one’s social networks, segregation and racism. Black people in Oregon are less likely to use HIV prevention and treatment resources.

Ending new HIV transmission is a goal we can achieve within our lifetimes. This is only possible if everyone has access to the tools they need to be healthy. PrEP, PEP, condoms, and sterile syringes can prevent HIV transmission. HIV treatment means that people living with HIV can live long, healthy lives. It means they have zero risk of transmitting HIV through sex.

Everyone should get tested for HIV at least once. But worries about a positive diagnosis can be a barrier. These worries can prevent people from wanting to know their status. Fear is real, but there is no wrong test result. People with HIV are living long, healthy, and sexually active lives. People who do not have HIV can prevent infection by using PrEP and PEP, condoms, and tools for safer drug use.

A6 held listening sessions with Black and African American people in Portland. People expressed the need for more awareness about how HIV is transmitted and how it can be prevented. Learn more! Start talking about sexual health!