SHLI at Morehouse School of Medicine Distributes 200 Free At-Home HIV Testing Kits for Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
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Posted By: Reginald Culpepper on January 30, 2025 In recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, the Satcher Health Leadership Institute (SHLI) at Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) and Fort Valley State University (FVSU), a historically Black university in middle Georgia, are partnering to advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention among college students. On Thursday, February 6, volunteers will pack 200 free care packages that include at-home HIV test kits and other essential items on the MSM campus between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. On Friday, February 7, a collaborative team representing SHLI and FVSU will distribute the packages on the university’s campus. Research data from the SHLI Health Equity Tracker shows that the Black community in Peach County, Georgia, where the city of Fort Valley is the county seat, makes up 83.5% of its HIV prevalence despite representing only 43.9% of the population. Young people between the ages of 13-24, regardless of race and gender, make up 6.5% of the HIV prevalence. "For many students, going to college marks a major change in the trajectory of their lives. It is the first time they are independently responsible for their health," stated Christopher Ervin, MD, director of Community-Based Initiatives in the MSM Department of Family Medicine. "It is important that we teach students about preventive health care, especially as it relates to their sexual and reproductive health, with particular attention to HIV education and prevention. Staff at on-campus outreach offices and the local state health department are available to provide students with free STI and HIV education, testing and counseling." In 2023, SHLI launched the Georgia Thrives campaign to address structural barriers that exist within Black communities in the southern United States in regard to HIV testing, treatment and ongoing care. Funded by Gilead Sciences, the campaign's strategic solutions include better access to care, improved clinical provider training in HIV, early engagement with clinicians, policy education and assessment of legislation impacting people living with HIV. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Reginald Culpepper
President, Fulfillment and Web Services, HBCUCONNECT Clark Atlanta University class of 1998 Member Since September 2000 |
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