Thursday, April 10, 2025
National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day is a significant event dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of HIV & AIDS on youth, emphasizing the importance of education, prevention, and testing. First observed in 2013 by advocates for youth nonprofit organizations focusing on adolescent sexual health and rights, NYHAAD continues to encourage young people to take an active role in their sexual health.
National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day serves as a reminder of the importance of education, prevention, and testing among youth. It emphasizes the need for continued outreach and support to ensure that all young people have access to the resources and care they need.
Key Facts:
- Youth Impact: As of October 2023, youth aged 13 to 24 account for an estimated 26% of all new HIV infections in the United States. Most of these new infections occur among gay and bisexual males, particularly in Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino communities.
- Indiana Statistics: Annually, Indiana reports 300 to 400 new HIV cases, with youth comprising about 20% of new diagnoses. This suggests 60 to 80 new HIV cases among youth in Indiana each year.
Health Impact:
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Awareness and Diagnosis: Many youths are unaware of their HIV status due to lack of testing or symptoms. Late diagnosis can lead to poorer health outcomes and increased transmission risk.
- Mental Health and Stigma: Youth living with HIV often face stigma, discrimination, and social isolation, impacting their mental health and self-esteem. The stress of managing a chronic condition and fear of disclosure can lead to anxiety and depression.
Educational and Economic Impact:
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Academic Performance: Youth with HIV may miss school due to illness, medical appointments, or stigma, affecting their academic performance and future opportunities
Social Challenges:
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Disclosure and Relationships: Youth may struggle with disclosing their status to partners, friends, or family due to fear of rejection or judgment. HIV can complicate romantic relationships, especially if partners are uninformed or unsupportive.
Disproportionate Impact on Ethnic Minorities:
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Black and Latino Youth: Systemic inequities lead to higher rates of HIV among Black and Latino youth, who face limited access to healthcare and higher rates of poverty.
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LGBTQ+ Youth: Gay and bisexual men, transgender youth, and other LGBTQ+ individuals face higher rates of HIV due to stigma, discrimination, and lack of targeted prevention resources.
Prevention and Treatment Resources:
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Prep and PEP: Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (Prep) and Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) are effective tools for HIV prevention, but many youths lack awareness or access to these medications.
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Treatment Adherence: With proper treatment, youth living with HIV can lead healthy lives and reduce transmission risk. However, adherence to treatment can be challenging due to stigma, lack of support, or financial barriers
YOUTH RESOURCES
The Indianapolis Urban League Special Population Support Program offers FREE HIV, Hepatitis C, and STI testing for those 13 years of age without parental consent and older. Call (317) 693-7603 to schedule a confidential appointment.