Columbus--The number of Central Ohio teenagers and young adults infected
with HIV has exploded 45 percent in just three years. Of all the Franklin County
women living with HIV, nearly three-quarters are African American. As dozens of
countries commemorate World AIDS Day on December 1, Central Ohioans need to be
reminded that the epidemic continues right here at home.
The Ohio Department of Health reports that HIV infections in Central Ohio match
the dramatic increases nationwide, especially in African Americans, youth, and
women.
Between 2003 and 2006, the highest new infection rates in Central Ohio were
among youth (ages 13-25), up nearly 45 percent. Infections among individuals
ages 25-34 were up about 10 percent, and individuals ages 45-64 were up 13
percent. The number of new HIV infection diagnoses in the African American
population jumped 22 percent. African American women are disproportionately
affected, making up almost 75 percent of all women diagnosed in Franklin County.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that more than one
million Americans are living with HIV. More than a quarter of them don’t even
know they are infected. The CDC also estimates that more than 56,000 Americans
become infected with HIV every year. The numbers make HIV prevention a national
health priority. Tracking at-risk behaviors is an essential part of developing
successful prevention efforts.
The Columbus Regional Advisory Group for HIV Prevention and the Central Ohio
HIV/AIDS Consortium are planning local events to commemorate World AIDS Day,
including a candlelight vigil to read names of those who have passed due to
AIDS, a quilt-making workshop for people to add loved one’s names to the 2008
quilt panel, a luncheon and HIV testing, skating event, and more. For the
complete schedule of events, call 800-332-AIDS or visit www.catf.net/WorldAIDSDay.
The Columbus Regional Advisory Group is a federally-mandated organization with a
mission to reduce the spread of HIV by providing community input into local HIV
prevention planning and services. This mission is accomplished through
collaboration of Columbus Public Health, the Ohio Department of Health, and
community members representing the epidemiological profile of HIV/AIDS in
Columbus.
The Central Ohio HIV Consortium was established to identify the needs of Central
Ohioans affected by HIV. Through collaborative means, the Consortium strives to
assure the integration of effective, accessible services and to provide
community planning and partnerships for the implementation of the Ryan White
Program, the Central Ohio Case Management Network, and other resources.
Iris Velasco is an HIV/AIDS specialist with the Columbus Urban League.
