The Silent Killer of African Americans: The Epidemic of HIV/AIDS

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The epidemic of HIV/AIDS has been a repeat offender in the deaths of many people worldwide, African Americans, specifically, have been disproportionately impacted by this virus since it was first discovered in the early 1980s. Despite African Americans only being accountable for a small portion of the total U.S. population, they are the ethnic group most greatly affected by this virus. The HIV and AIDS epidemic does not simply target African American males, but over the years has grown to greatly affect black women, gay and bisexual men and the youth as well. There are many speculations as to why the ethnic group of African Americans has such a high rate of HIV and AIDS, however, this paper will explore specific reasoning behind this issue. The prevalence of HIV and AIDS amongst African Americans is an ongoing health issue due to lack of education and awareness, a smaller population, demographics and stigmas towards gay and bisexual groups.
To begin, it is widely known that once someone is knowledgeable about an issue or subject matter they can better combat the problem. One major issue is that many African Americans lack the basic knowledge behind the spread, treatment and prevention of HIV and AIDS. Also, that they are unaware of the prevalence this virus has in their community. Lacking awareness in ones HIV status is also a major factor that contributes to the epidemic plaguing the African American community. One of the most dangerous advantages that the spread of HIV and AIDS has is the lack of knowledge that many of its victims have. Not knowing the preventative methods to stop the spread of this virus or not knowing your HIV status further fuels the destructive path behind this epidemic.
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Black Americans and HIV/AIDS, The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, March 5, 2013. Web. 1 Apr 2014 .
"Center for Disease Control and Prevention." STD Health Equity . N.p., 10 Mar 2014. Web. 4 Apr 2014. .
"Ethnicity and Health in America Series: HIV Among African Americans." American Psychological Association . N.p., 26 Aug 2013. Web. 1 Apr 2014.
"HIV Among African American Gay and Bisexual Men." Center for Disease Control and Prevention. N.p.. Web. 1 Apr 2014. .
"HIV Vaccine Trials Network." Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day . N.p.. Web. 1 Apr 2014. .

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