There are 250,000-350,000 people in the United States living with HIV who do not yet know that they are infected. At least 40,000 people are infected with HIV in the U.S. each year. People who receive an early diagnosis of HIV have substantially better health outcomes than people who are diagnosed at late stages of HIV, including stages that meet the criteria for an AIDS diagnosis. Those who are aware of their status are less likely to transmit the virus. Additionally, those who test negative are better able to stay negative.
“AIDS Action Council fully supports National HIV Testing Day. Everyone should know their HIV status, regardless of whether it’s positive or negative,” said Rebecca Haag, AIDS Action’s Executive Director, adding, “National HIV Testing Day is an annual reminder for us to take control of our health.”