National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day

National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day

National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD) raises awareness of the disproportionate impact of HIV on Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. First recognized in 2003 by the Latino Commission on AIDS (LCOA) and the Hispanic Federation, NLAAD is observed annually on October 15 to coincide with the last day of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Hispanic and Latino communities across the United States are diverse, representing a variety of education levels, incomes, languages, and cultures. In 2022, Hispanic and Latino individuals accounted for 32 percent of new HIV diagnoses in the United States, although they represented 19 percent of the total U.S. population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In particular, those who are recent immigrants, have completed less formal education, or have limited English proficiency are disproportionately affected by HIV and may be at a disadvantage when accessing HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services.

Reducing HIV-related disparities in Hispanic and Latino communities requires improved access to HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services. HIV testing is critical for prevention efforts, so people who have HIV can access treatment and prevent further HIV transmission. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) HIV research program supports research to better understand and reduce HIV-related health disparities based on race and ethnicity. NIH-supported research also aims to increase access to HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services and encourage treatment adherence.