This year marks the 35th commemoration of World AIDS Day. 

Human immunodeficiency virus, known as HIV, weakens the body’s immune system and can lead to AIDS if left untreated. In 2021, 19% of all new HIV diagnoses were among young people (aged 13–24) and the American Indian/Alaska Native population had the lowest level of HIV knowledge status of any other racial or ethnic group. Engaging in risky health behaviors, such as having sexual intercourse without using contraception or injecting illicit drugs, can place youth at risk for HIV infection. behaviors, such as having sexual intercourse without using contraception or injecting illicit drugs, can place youth at risk for HIV infection. 

You can help address HIV infection among youth by teaching them about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), connecting them with health services for HIV testing, and supporting them in seeking treatment if they test positive.

Ways to Get Involved:

• Encourage teens to explore this interactive HIV Risk Reduction tool and access customized information about HIV/AIDS.
• Let’s Stop HIV Together with these resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Learn more about the Talking is Power Campaign, a tool for American Indian and Alaska Native parents and caregivers to talk to their teens about hard topics like sex, HIV and STDs, and consent. 
• Learn how to engage young men in preventative education and healthcare services.
• Incorporate material about contraception and abstinence into your program in creative engaging ways.
• Share the CDC’s tool for finding free or reduced cost HIV testing.