National HIV Testing Day 2011

Podcast

Downloadable podcast from NCHHSTP Director, Dr. Kevin Fenton, addressing National HIV Testing Day

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Transcript

National HIV Testing Day

[Announcer] This podcast is presented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC - safer, healthier people.

Each year on June 27, we recognize National HIV Testing Day — a day to promote HIV testing and early diagnosis of HIV across the United States. HIV testing is a proven prevention strategy for addressing the HIV epidemic. More importantly, HIV testing saves lives.

More people are being tested for HIV than ever before. Almost 83 million American adults between 18 and 64 years reported that they have been tested for HIV, as of 2009. That's an increase of more than 11 million from 2006 when CDC first recommended that HIV testing become a routine part of medical care for adults and adolescents. CDC recommends that people at high risk for HIV be tested at least once a year.

Now despite these gains, we have much more work to do. CDC estimates that 55 percent of adults and 28 percent of adults with a risk factor for HIV have not been tested.

Too many people living with HIV are being tested and diagnosed too late to take advantage of effective HIV treatment and prevention options. It is critical to reach people early in their HIV infection so they can be linked to care and treatment and can take steps to protect their partners.

CDC is committed to strengthening its efforts against the epidemic and working with partners to increase HIV testing. In 2010, CDC provided more than 60 million dollars via its expanded HIV testing initiative to support HIV testing efforts in 30 of the hardest hit jurisdictions in the United States. In addition, CDC provides funds to all health departments and more than 130 community-based organizations to implement HIV prevention programs, including HIV testing.

As we commemorate National HIV Testing Day, we also want to focus on the implementation of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, which calls for a collaborative national effort to prevent HIV and to support community members living with HIV. Additionally, the strategy calls for us to better educate the American people about HIV/AIDS through campaigns, including campaigns on National HIV Testing Day.

Join us by commemorating National HIV Testing Day on June 27 and working to educate all individuals about the importance of HIV testing throughout the year. Thank you.

[Announcer] For the most accurate health information, visit www.cdc.gov or call 1-800-CDC-INFO, 24/7.