Understanding the State of Black Women and HIV in the United States

Understanding the connections between Black women and HIV remains important today. Despite advances in treatment and medications, continued conversations and education are still needed as Black women continue to face significant disparities in HIV diagnoses and outcomes in the United States.

According to the CDC, in 2023 19% of those diagnosed with HIV were female. A closer look at the statistics shows a different picture for Black women. They accounted for 50% of HIV diagnoses, but are only 13% of the female U.S. population. They also had the highest HIV diagnosis rate among women. They were 3 times higher than Hispanic/Latino females and 11 times higher than White females.

Multiple factors contribute to these disparities, including limited access to healthcare, unstable housing, socioeconomic challenges, and stigma surrounding HIV. As we know, Black people living with HIV often feel stigmatized because of their HIV status, disclosure concerns, negative self-image, and what they believe other people’s attitudes are about people who are living with the diagnosis.

Despite these challenges, there is progress. From 2018 to 2022, estimated HIV infections among Black/African American individuals decreased by 12%. Efforts to decrease stigma and increase HIV awareness, education and testing all play roles in protecting Black women against the deadly disease.

 

Source: CDC Estimated HIV Incidence and Prevalence, 2022, Key Findings

However, there are still about 1.2 million people living with HIV in the US, and according to the CDC, in 2023 Black people account for 39% those individuals. Yet, with treatment and guidance from health professionals, many are seeing success and living longer. Now, there is even a medication to help reduce the risk of getting HIV. PrEP or pre-exposure prophylaxis is medicine used by many at risk for HIV to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use.

Source AIDSVu

Taking steps to learn more about HIV and protective actions can help save lives. Regular HIV testing and knowing the symptoms of HIV are crucial for early detection and effective treatment. By staying informed and proactive, we can work towards eliminating the disparities in HIV care and negative outcomes often associated with Black women.

Visit gettested.cdc.gov to find free or low-cost testing options.