|
We live in the land of denial. Americans have been turning
a blind eye to world hunger, mass genocide, and political tyranny for
many decades now. Thus, it should come as no surprise that responding
to the AIDS epidemic has not been the number one item on our national
agenda. In fact, most of us are under the wrong impression that by driving
eco-friendly hybrids, wearing organic cotton, and condemning Nike products
we are helping save the world. Think again. In the time it takes to read
this sentence, a young person between the ages of 15-24 will be infected
with HIV/AIDS; a deadly virus for which there is no cure.
A post-modern epidemic is lurking in the shadows and
we are scared to acknowledge its existence. In economically impoverished
countries AIDS is claiming more lives than conventional warfare. Infected
people are dropping like flies, while national governments are clamoring
to cover up the magnitude of the tragedy. Africa is now a barren country
infested with disease and desperation. But let’s face it, AIDS
is not confined only to a far away continents, inhabited by peoples of
different races, religions, and nationalities. You too could
have AIDS and not know it.
According to James Moody, associate professor of sociology
at Ohio State University in Columbus, “If you had one partner in
the last year; you could be linked up to about 20 percent of the people
in your city.”
Upon reading this jarring information, I took a moment
to let the gravity of the situation sink in. Indeed, the simple facts
are frightening, but thinking about the broader implications, I realize
the real picture could be much worse. For one thing, as anyone who
has gone to college or watched Sex & the City would agree, many young,
single, and independent people have frequent and promiscuous sex. I personally
admit to having countless friends who have had multiple partners in a
month.
The monogamous types are not safe either (for more information
read my recently published article titled, Cheaters
Inc.). It
is a remote yet legitimate possibility that your ‘exclusive’ boyfriend
or wife of 15 years could be sleeping all over town. Considering every
time you make love, you are in effect sleeping with everyone your partner
has been intimate with; your bedroom might be much more crowded
than you think.
If you are sexually active, you may be at risk, but
that is not to say you are helpless. It is possible to attack and eradicate
the HIV/AIDS problem both at the personal and global level. You start
by practicing safe sex (always with latex condoms) and getting tested.
Kimberly Yarnall, M.D., associate professor of community and family medicine
at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina says, “Women get comfortable
with a new partner, so they stop using condoms after about a month,” and
she adds, “You should use condoms for at least six months, then
get tested for HIV and other STDs. If you are negative at that point,
you should be safe.”
Ironically, many fear the HIV test like the black
plague. People who avoid it claim ignorance is bliss. Well, not in
this case. If in fact you are infected with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency
Virus) you can get treatment and stay healthier longer. Also, when you
know the truth, you can take steps to avoid passing the disease on to
other people.
Voluntary HIV/AIDS testing and counseling (VCT) centers
make their services available to people in need. Remember, knowledge
can save and at the very least prolong your life.
|
For HIV/AIDS advice and testing contact:
1800-BE SAFE (237 -2331)
CDC AIDS Hotline: 1-800-342-2437
NPIN: 1-800-458-5231
GMHC: 1-800-AIDSNYC (2437692) or 1-212-807-8655
“The Hear No Evil.
See No Evil. Speak No Evil.” campaign seeks to break the
silence about HIV/AIDS, educate and empower young people on a global
level. The intrusive and haunting black and white images of stars
like, Salma Hayek, Ashley Judd, Christina Aguilera, Cindy Crawford,
Penelope Cruz , LL Cool J, Elijah Wood, and Josh Lucas, shot by
famous photographer Peter Lindbergh, hope to raise international
awareness about HIV/AIDS. Also, the “Empowerment Tags” engraved
with the words, “Hear”, “See”, and “Shout” on
the one side and the AIDS ribbon on the other, sold for $5
at ALDO stores will be donating 100% its proceeds to programs benefiting
youth AIDS. You donations could help save the next generation.
Remember, ominous silence, mass ignorance, and international
inaction are destroying humanity and only by speaking out and taking
a stand you can make a difference. So please have a little compassion.
For more information please log on to http://www.youthaids.org/awareness.html
|