Congressman Henry Cuellar Recognizes World Aids Day

CONGRESSMAN HENRY CUELLAR RECOGNIZES WORLD AIDS DAY

Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar recognized World AIDS Day. Around 40 million people worldwide have been infected with the virus, and 44,000 new people are infected every year, according to a U.N. report.

"This deadly epidemic is an issue which every human should be particularly aware of. Unfortunately, close to 26% of the people infected do not know about their status," said Congressman Cuellar.

World AIDS Day was created to remind people that there are others who need special care. It is a step towards uniting the entire world to fight against the spread of HIV and AIDS. Lack of awareness of the disease or of methods of prevention is one of the main causes of the spreading of HIV/AIDS.

Racial and ethnic minorities have been disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS since the beginning of the epidemic. They now represent the majority of new AIDS cases and those living with AIDS. Of minority groups, African-Americans have the highest AIDS case rates, followed by Latinos. Women are also impacted by AIDS. In 1985, women comprised 8% of new AIDS diagnoses; by 2004 this had climbed up to 27%

Congressman Cuellar also noted, "I strongly believe that we must view funding for health programs from a much wider perspective. Prevention, treatment, research, education, awareness, and nutrition are all essential pieces that help insure healthy lives. I have voted for various programs that address the HIV/AIDS issue, including the Ryan White CARE Act, which will reauthorize appropriations for HIV health care services programs. Equal access to treatment and care should also be priorities, and I will continue to push for legislation that speaks in favor of those who need it the most."

http://www.house.gov/list/press/tx28_cuellar/worldaidsday.html