Mayor Phil Gordon attended the National HIV Testing Day at a small church in Phoenix Friday morning. Many community members gathered to be tested and to spread HIV awareness throughout the high-risk community.
In Phoenix, the percentage of people infected with AIDS has increased 12% in the past year, said the Mayor.
Approximately 75 community members attended the free testing event hosted by Ebony House, a treatment and counseling center. Counselors were available if anyone were to test positive and need support. There were also tables of brochures on HIV/AIDS awareness and aid.
"This is an important day across the country…we want to thank all of you for coming out and spending the day with us," said Outreach coordinator for Ebony House Sharon Ellis to the crowd.
Using a new oral test called Orasure, Ellis tested Mayor Gordon for the HIV virus. The test took place in the church isle while community members were able to watch the quick and painless process, which no longer involves drawing blood. A specially treated pad was placed between the Mayors gum and lower cheek to collect a specimen called oral mucosal transudate (OMT). The pad was then tested for the presence of HIV antibodies. The test is 99.8% accurate, and the results take approximately 20 minutes to confirm, according to the Department of Public Health.
Mayor Gordon emphasized in his speech to the community that knowledge is power. Being infected with HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence. Educating the public is necessary in order to lower the number of people who are infected. Early detection is also crucial in prolonging life and living happier and healthier. It is recommended that anyone over the age of 13 be tested.
"We are a city with heart and soul," Gordon said.
There are great non-profit organizations and faith leaders to help make a difference in the lives of our community members, he continued. We are here to save lives, and educate people. The best way to prevent HIV is to practice safe methods and to be educated.
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). By killing or damaging cells of the body's immune system, HIV progressively destroys the body's ability to fight infections. Over one million Americans are living with HIV/AIDS today. One-fourth of them are unaware they are HIV-positive. Early detection and effective HIV care can help people manage their disease and live longer.
HIV/AIDS doesn't discriminate against gender, race, ethnicity, income, or demographics. However, the impact of the epidemic is disproportionately high among certain communities, particularly African Americans, and other minority populations.
HIV testing is a key component in controlling the spread of HIV.
