THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH RECOGNIZES MARCH 10TH AS NATIONAL WOMEN AND GIRLS HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Health (DOH) recognizes March 10, 2008 as the third annual observance of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. This day emphasizes the need for increased awareness of HIV/AIDS among women and girls and the promotion of HIV prevention and testing in this population.

“Women and girls can protect themselves from HIV in many ways, including practicing abstinence, discussing HIV prevention, using condoms if sexually active, and getting tested for HIV,” said Tom Liberti, Chief of the DOH Bureau of HIV/AIDS.

Women account for 26 percent of new HIV/AIDS diagnoses across the nation. In Florida, cumulative AIDS cases among women represent 32 percent of the total. Of persons newly diagnosed with HIV in Florida in 2007, 29 percent were women.

In the United States and Florida, minority women are disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS. Black women make up 67 percent of female HIV/AIDS cases, while white and Hispanic women represent 18 percent and 13 percent, respectively.

DOH is partnering with local organizations to promote the importance of HIV testing, treatment, and education among women and girls. Events commemorating this special day will take place statewide. For more information about HIV/AIDS or for a complete list of local awareness events, contact a county health department or visit www.WeMakeTheChange.com

DOH promotes, protects and improves the health of all people in Florida. To learn more about DOH and the Bureau of HIV/AIDS, visit www.doh.state.fl.us/Disease_ctrl/aids/index.html