Although African Americans make up only 13 percent of the total US population, we represented 50 percent of the HIV/AIDS cases in 2003. The mission of the African American Health Program is to help eliminate health disparities in the Black population in Montgomery County, Md.

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) was first reported in the United States in 1981 and has since become a major worldwide epidemic. AIDS is caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). HIV is spread most commonly by having unprotected sex with an infected partner.

If you test positive for HIV, the disease can be managed so that you stay well, delay the onset of AIDS, and prevent some life-threatening conditions from emerging. From testing to treatment, the AAHP is actively addressing HIV/AIDS in the Black community.

National HIV Testing Day, Friday, June 27th 2008

The annual National HIV Testing Day is one month away on Friday, June 27, 2008. The African American Health Program HIV Prevention Services in partnership with the Mount  Jezreel Baptist Church, Silver Spring, MD is planning activities to commemorate the day. The theme is, “Take the Test, Take Control.”
Our goal is to have members of the community, organizations and businesses assist us in spreading the word for people to come out and know their status for the peace of mind. Free HIV testing will be offered in addition to other activities for men, women and teens.
In past years, our events had been successful because of involvements of other people in the community, come and help us make a difference, please contact us at: 301-421-5445.

A message on HIV Testing from Mrs. Laura Bush, First Lady of the United States