February 4, 2008

In an effort to improve the overall health of all Michigan residents, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is recognizing its fourth annual Black AIDS Awareness Campaign in February.

"We cannot ignore that the disproportionate burden of HIV/AIDS is on African Americans," said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. "This campaign highlights the importance of prevention and the need for those at risk to get tested."

The campaign began Feb. 1, and continues through March 15, and includes the eighth annual Observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness and Information Day on Feb. 7, the third annual National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on March 10, and the 19th annual Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS March 2 through March 8.

MDCH data clearly illustrates the impact of AIDS on African Americans. While representing only 14 percent of Michigan's general population, 59 percent of persons living with HIV/AIDS are African American.

The rate of persons living with HIV infection is almost nine times higher among African Americans than among whites in Michigan. MDCH estimates that 1 in 100 African-American males and 1 in 260 African-American women in Michigan may be infected with HIV, with the Detroit Metro Area housing 65 percent of those HIV positive while representing only 45 percent of the general population.

"MDCH continues to work with many community-based agencies and local health departments to implement evidenced-based interventions and HIV prevention programs," said Debra L. Szwejda, Acting Director of MDCH's Division of Health, Wellness and Disease Control. "By combining education and awareness, we hope to reduce the disproportionate impact this epidemic has within the African American community."

Events are planned across Michigan to raise awareness and promote HIV testing among Michigan residents. Health awareness fairs and HIV counseling and testing are among the many events that are included in this campaign. To find an HIV testing site in your area, a planned event, or to obtain additional information on HIV/AIDS, please call the Michigan AIDS Hotline at 1-800-872-AIDS (2437).