National Latino Aids
Awareness Day

Free HIV testing at Lee County Volunteers in Medicine

Compassionate Care Clinic on Monday, October 15, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Hispanic/Latino population represents the largest group among all minority populations within the United States. In fact, researchers estimate that by 2050 the number of Hispanics/Latinos in the United States will double.  Conversely, this population is also at high risk for HIV infection. Although Hispanics/Latinos account for only 15 percent of the total population in Florida, 16 percent of this population is currently infected and living with HIV.

Various studies show that Hispanics/Latinos face various HIV/AIDS disparities. For example, Centers for Disease Control data reveals that Hispanics are more likely to be tested late into their HIV infection. As a result, they receive medical care later in the course of their disease, increasing deaths among this group. In addition, in 2007, 33 percent of all Hispanics/Latinos younger than age 65 years lacked health insurance coverage. The lack of access to affordable health care has equally resulted in increased numbers of new AIDS cases being reported among Hispanic/Latino populations.

Therefore, the Lee County Health Department encourages all Hispanics/Latinos to be tested for HIV. Testing/counseling is necessary for HIV prevention, treatment, and patient care. It is paramount to know your HIV status in preventing the spread of the disease and it is vital to link those who are HIV positive to medical care and other services that the State and Federal government offer to help improve quality of life and reduce mortality and morbidity related to HIV.

We invite the Hispanic/Latino community as well as the general public to be tested regularly and to come to our National Latino AIDS Awareness Day event.

On October 15^th, the Lee County Health Department will

be at Lee County Volunteers in Medicine Compassionate Care Clinic

located at 1154 Lee Boulevard, Suite 2, Lehigh Acres

offering FREE HIV TESTING from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

No appointments are necessary.

For more information, please call 239-368-8080.