Daily HealthBeat Tip - March 23, 2007

HIV and Native Americans

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

About eight of every 100,000 American Indians and Alaska Natives were diagnosed with AIDS in 2005. That’s the third highest rate of any racial or ethnic group in America. Because many cases might not be reported, and so not show up in these numbers, the figure probably is low.

But the infection can be prevented, and people with the disease can get life-extending treatment. So HHS’ Indian Health Service has created a PSA campaign calling on people it serves to get checked.

IHS Director Charles Grim:

"Testing is available, and treatment is also available. Talking about HIV, getting tested, and seeking treatment for people who test positive, will save lives." (10 seconds)

People who discover they have the disease can avoid spreading it to others.

Learn more at www.hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I'm Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: April, 06 2007