National HIV testing day

Today , June 27th, 2009, is National HIV testing day. It is a national collaborative effort organized by the National Association of People with AIDS and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to bring attention to the fact that millions of people in America are infected with the HIV virus but are unaware of it. HIV has not gone away even though there has not been much attention given to it lately. HIV is not limited to any particular lifestyle, age group, ethnic group or geographic location. Instead HIV in America is increasing tremendously among Latino and African Americans, according to the CDC. The National HIV testing day is one tool that can be used in encouraging preventive behavior for everyone whether or not you think you are at risk. As a matter of fact, the CDC and President Obama are recommending that everyone make HIV testing part of routine annual physical exams (http://www.cdc.gov/Features/HIVtesting/). Sounds like a good idea to me. After all, knowledge is power and if you are serious about getting to know your body and improving or maintaining your health then this test for yourself, friends and loved ones is a no brainer. Don't use the excuse that you don't want to know. That is not wise nor is it healthful. Get the information that you need to be have the best health you can and take the necessary steps to get screened, tested, and treatment if applicable. Even if you miss out today, do it this week, this month or this year. Just do it.

What do you think?

Ruthy