Skip to Content

Breaking HIV Stigma: AHF Billboards Champion Thriving Lives

By Jo-Carolyn Goode

Click here for updates on this story

    April 30, 2024 (Houston Style Magazine) — In a groundbreaking move, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) unveils its latest out-of-home advertising campaign, aimed at dismantling the stigma surrounding HIV testing and celebrating individuals thriving with the virus. This innovative initiative not only encourages testing but also underscores that living with HIV doesn’t equate to giving up on life’s joys. With the campaign’s focal point being the URL HIVcare.org, individuals are directed to AHF’s comprehensive directory of service locations across the nation.

According to HIV.gov, approximately 1.2 million people in the US live with HIV, with 13% unaware of their status, underscoring the crucial need for testing. AHF’s Thriving campaign seeks to elevate and honor those living with HIV, emphasizing the importance of testing and accessing care when needed.

Dr. Michael Dube, National Medical Director for AHF’s Public Health Division, stresses the significance of testing and timely care, stating, “Not knowing your status and neglecting necessary care can impede your quality of life.” AHF’s commitment to providing comprehensive HIV services spans over 1.9 million patients globally, offering everything from testing and counseling to specialized treatment by dedicated providers.

The campaign spans various mediums, including billboards, transit shelters, bus interiors, posters, benches, and standalone kiosks across 14 states and additional territories for a three-month rotation. By showcasing six diverse images of individuals thriving in their unique ways, AHF underscores that thriving means different things to different people.

The CDC reports approximately 32,000 new HIV infections annually, with stigma contributing to testing hesitancy. AHF’s campaign aims to shift this narrative, spotlighting how access to affordable care enables individuals to flourish. Research demonstrates that adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) not only impacts viral load but also improves overall health outcomes, including sleep, employment, stress management, and food security.

By championing the lives of individuals living with HIV, AHF’s campaign not only promotes testing but also fosters understanding, compassion, and empowerment within communities. Let’s break the stigma and celebrate thriving lives together!

For more info, visit www. HIVcare.org or HIV.gov

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Jo-Carolyn Goode
editorial@stylemagazine.com
7133205611

Article Topic Follows: CNN - Regional

Jump to comments ↓

CNN Newsource

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KION 46 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content