Get tested
At the heart of HIV/AIDS epidemic are young people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, young people ages 13-24 are strongly affected by HIV, accounting for approximately one in every four new HIV infection in the United States.
Many teens believe they cannot get this disease. However, because they engage in risky intimate behavior, alcohol and drug use, they are most vulnerable to contracting HIV.
They also lack essential HIV information. This lack of knowledge puts them at risk because they do not know how to protect themselves and others.
As parents prepare their youth for going back to school this fall, they should also take a moment to ensure they are educated about HIV/AIDS.
St. James A.M.E. Church will host a Building Powerful and Healthy Relationships: HIV/AIDS and Testing workshop on Saturday, Sept. 20, from noon to 3 p.m. at 1107 E. Oak St. in Denton. Everyone is invited to attend and get tested.
Mary C. Taylor,
Denton
