This year, National HIV Testing Day is on June 27th. .This day was created as an annual observance in order to promote the importan
ce and awareness of HIV testing. Throughout countries around the world, including the U.S., HIV and AIDS have proven to be a continuing problem. It is not only important to prevent yourself and others from contracting the disease but to also be treated properly for those who do have it.
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
H – Human – This form of virus can only infect human beings
I – Immunodeficiency – HIV weakens the immune system that destroys important cells that fight disease and infection. A “deficient” immune system cannot protect you.
V – Virus – A virus can only reproduce itself by taking over a cell in the body of its host.
If you feel you may have an STD or want to be prepared at AFC/ AFC Bridgeport we encourage our patients to get themselves tested. We can also perform tests for any major for STDS that include:
- HPV
- Chlamydia
- Genital herpes
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhea
- HIV/AIDS
Here are some statistical facts to learn more about HIV:
– About 50,000 people get infected with HIV each year. In 2010, there were around 47,500 new HIV infections in the United States.
– About 1.2 million people in the United States were living with HIV at the end of 2011.
– About 14% of people living with HIV do not know they are infected.
– In the United States, about 13,712 people diagnosed with AIDS died in 2012. To date, an estimated 658,507 people diagnosed with AIDS in the United States have died.
– Young people, aged 13-24 are especially affected by HIV. They are accounted for 26% of all new HIV infections in 2010.
At AFC , no appointment is needed and walk-ins are welcomed at any time. We have an on-site lab certified by the state which performs all testing. If a test comes back positive, our doctors can treat you in our facility. Call 203-333-4400 if you have any further question or visit us at 161 Boston Avenue.
Source: http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/statistics/basics.html
