HIV & AIDS Health Center

HIV and AIDS in African-Americans

Reducing the Risk of HIV in Blacks

These are a few of the ways to reduce the risk of HIV in blacks:

• Learn about safer sex. Use a latex condom and water -based lubricant each and every time you have sex.
• Learn what you can about your sex partners’ past sex and drug use. Before you have sex, ask yourself -- is it worth the risk?
• Contact a local HIV/AIDS organization for tips on communicating with sex partners about HIV and safe sex.
• Get information about the HIV drug Truvada. It has been approved for use in those at high risk as a way to prevent HIV infection and can be used in conjunction with safe sex practices.
• If you think you may have an STD, get treatment. This will help lower your risk for HIV.
• Think about getting tested during each of your regular medical check-ups. Don't let fear of discovery stop you from getting tested. You may need to ask your doctor specifically for an HIV test.
• Do whatever you can to avoid sex when you drink alcohol or take drugs.
• If you inject drugs, always use clean needles and syringes; don’t share them with others. Be sure to get tested at least once a year. Remember that counseling or treatment can help you stop using drugs.