Unfortunately, talk of HIV/AIDS has become so common that the “shock value” of the topic is not as great as it was when the disease was first discovered in the 1980s, and unprotected sex is not being taken very seriously as well. The rates of HIV/AIDS cases between ages 13-19 has recently increased. An estimated 250,000 people in the United States have HIV and are not aware of it.1 To prevent this number from rising, it is good that you check your status, and find out if you’re HIV positive or not.

National HIV/AIDS Testing Day (June 27) is a day that motivates people to learn their status and helping them get more knowledge about HIV/AIDS. By being proactive and taking part in a day like this, or simply getting tested on your own, you can save a life. The statistics about HIV/AIDS cases don’t have to rise. Therefore, you must take control of not only your health, but your life, and get tested.

Check Out …

Reflections … Three best friends learn to take the risk of HIV/AIDS seriously as they navigate romantic relationships.

The Monster … Three fellas chat up the new girl on the block and only one gets lucky. He gets cold feet because he thinks she’ll judge him based on his HIV status.

Nightmare on AIDS Street … The clinic's waiting room... 17-year old Isabel knows she can't take back what happened during a hazy night with a guy. While waiting for an HIV test, she confronts her greatest fear.

Just Like You Imagined … Three couples make decisions that will make or break them. A glimpse into the lives of six young people dealing with HIV, pregnancy, one-night stands, self-esteem, long-term commitment and taking responsibility.

http://www.hhs.gov/aidsawarenessdays/days/testing/index.html - FACTS