Lawrence Stallworth: What are you excited about in the fight against HIV/AIDS?

When I was 17 years old, I found out I was HIV-positive. As a young, Black gay man, I remember the fear of rejection, and the incredible love and support I found among my family and friends. Since the day I first learned my HIV status, I have made it my personal responsibility to fight this disease until we achieve an AIDS-free generation. I know many young people out there feel the same because our risk of infection is high and access to treatment and care can be tenuous. In the United States, 39 percent of all new HIV cases are among young people ages 13-29, and from 2007-2010, ages 15-19 and 20-24 were the only age groups to experience an increase in the rate of diagnoses of HIV infection. Furthermore, a young black gay man has nearly a one in four chance of becoming infected by age 25. Around the world, young people make up 40 percent of new HIV infections. While I am excited we are at a tipping point for ending the HIV/AIDS pandemic because of effective prevention, testing and treatment interventions that have been developed, we need to take a close look at the current reality of HIV/AIDS -- and that requires engaging and prioritizing youth. To realize an AIDS-free generation, we must continue to address barriers to accessible, confidential and affordable health care services for young people.  When you don't know where your next meal is coming from, taking care of your health stops being a priority. Young people themselves are tackling these barriers, including povert...
Source: PHRMA - Category: Pharmaceuticals Authors: Source Type: news