Online Archives

COMMENTARIES

by Jennifer Mitchell

Worldwide, an estimated 40 million people are infected with HIV/AIDS. In the United States we are approaching the one million mark with an estimated 850,000-900,000 cases. The epidemic is spreading at alarming rates, with 40,000 new infections occurring each year in the United States. More than 50 percent of the 40,000 new infections occur among African Americans.

With the start of a new year and as we celebrate Black History month, it is appropriate to take action and break the silence about HIV/AIDS as it continues to negatively impact the African-American community.

We cannot afford to be silent about a disease continually infecting and taking the lives of communities of color. The disease disproportionately impacts minorities. HIV/AIDS is the leading cause of death for African-Americans, ages 25-44.

Of the 26,286 Marylanders reported living with HIV/AIDS, 75 percent are African-American. While African-Americans represent 12 percent of the national population, they account for 42 percent of the AIDS cases and 54 percent of new infections.

Among women, African-Americans represent 63 percent of the new cases. They are 23 times more likely to be infected than white women.

Additionally, the disease is taking a toll on African-American youth, with both black children and teenagers representing 65 percent of the U.S. cases.

What puts communities of color at risk? Poverty and limited access to health care services and basic HIV education contribute to health disparities. Fear, denial, stigma and discrimination hinder prevention efforts. Engaging in risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex, having multiple partners and substance abuse, especially sharing needles, contribute to the rate of new infections.

What is the role of the church? Church leaders, including pastors, deacons, lay ministers and parish nurses, can play an important role in mobilizing communities by creating awareness, providing education and resources, motivating people to get tested, and knowing how to seek care for people who are infected. Health ministries can provide leadership and support. Faith communities can have a powerful voice and be a resource for their community in terms of health information and services.

Church leaders should get involved; learn more about HIV/AIDS and motivate church members by promoting HIV/AIDS information and providing resources and support for those living with HIV/AIDS.

The Baltimore-Washington Conference Committee on HIV/AIDS, led by the Rev. Kay Albury-Pierce of Brooks UMC in St. Leonard, provides information and resources for those interested in AIDS ministry. For more information, contact Associate Council Director Sandy Ferguson at .

Jennifer Mitchell is a regional AIDS educator for the Howard County Health Department. She can be contacted at (410) 313-6266 or .