Notes from Teen Health 411:
HIV and African American Teens

You don't often hear adults saying that teen girls need to talk more. In fact, they do need to talk more about HIV/AIDS, and adults need to talk with them.

AIDS is a preventable disease and the leading cause of death for African American females between the ages of 25 and 34. Nearly 70 percent of all new HIV infections in the United States between 2001 and 2004 were in black females, most of whom contracted it from their male partners. Black women are 19 times more likely to be infected with HIV than white women and 13 times more likely to die from the disease.

When we are talking to our friends and our daughters, it is important to remember that the things we are not saying can kill us. Talk about condoms, HIV, and protection during sex, all types of sex: oral, anal and vaginal. When talking about love, talk about protection!

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Disclaimer: This content is the opinion of the author(s) and not necessarily that of your health care provider, the Palo Alto Medical Clinic, the Palo Alto Medical Foundation or Sutter Health. This information is provided for your general information and education only, and should not be relied upon for personal diagnosis or treatment. If you feel like you have an illness or need emotional support for a problem, please contact you personal physician NOW.