12 Surprisingly True Facts About HIV In America

How much do you really know? Check out these facts, and then head to HelpStopTheVirus.com to learn more about HIV testing, prevention, and treatment. Want to know even more? Your healthcare provider is a great resource.

1. The numbers tell it all:

Nearly 50,000 people have been diagnosed with HIV every year for the past decade.

2. Unfortunately, many people are still unaware of their status.

3. Yes, those numbers are shocking, especially when it comes to young people.

4.

5. And contrary to common belief, men are not the only ones at risk of contracting HIV.

6. African American women are disproportionately affected by HIV.

7. In fact, HIV affects the African American population at a shockingly high rate.

That's a shocking amount, considering African Americans only make up 12% of the U.S. population. Caucasians account for 31% (the second-highest amount) of new diagnoses in the U.S.

8. This means that if the HIV epidemic continues on this course…

9. Where you live also matters and can increase your risk of getting HIV.

According to CDC data, the places with the greatest risk for being diagnosed with HIV over a lifetime are: Washington, D.C.; Maryland; Georgia; Florida; and Louisiana.

10. It is extremely important to know your status — so get tested!

There is no cure for HIV, but treatment can help you live a healthy life. So talk to your healthcare provider about treatment soon and know your status. The CDC recommends that people between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once, and more often if you are at increased risk. Find a testing center near you today.

11. 2015 marks the 30th anniversary of the HIV test.

Use the HIV Testing Site Locator to locate a testing site near you!

12. Remember:

And when you know your status, you can work with your healthcare provider to take better care of your health.

Head to HelpStopTheVirus to learn even more about testing, prevention, and treatment.

Images courtesy of Gilead Sciences, Inc./ Lyla Ribot © Buzzfeed

Facts from CDC and AIDSVu.org.