HIV Among Youth in the U.S.
Young gay and bisexual males at greatest risk for HIV
Most new HIV infections in youth (about 70%) occur in gay and bisexual males; most are African Americans.
Sexually active young gay and bisexual males
- Have higher risk for getting HIV if they are having sex with older or multiple partners, using drugs or alcohol, or not using condoms during every sexual encounter.
- Should get an HIV test at least every year. Those at greater risk could benefit from testing as often as every 3 to 6 months.
- Aren’t always getting HIV prevention education that is accurate and effective.
- For HIV information for youth, contact your local community health center or state health department, or visit CDC’s website (http://www.AIDS.gov or http://www.cdc.gov/ msmhealth/).
HIV Affects Everyone
- Risk for HIV
- not knowing the fact or personal risk
- having sex
- alcohol or drug use with sex
- sex with older partners who may be more likely to be infected
- injecting drugs
- no condoms
- not tested
- not treated
- Page last reviewed: November 27, 2012
- Page last updated: November 27, 2012
- Content source:
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention
- Page maintained by: Office of the Associate Director for Communications (OADC)