HIV AND LATINXS
Latinx communities account for only 17% of the U.S. population. However, they represented 24% of all new HIV diagnoses in the U.S. in 2014 (according to the Center for Disease Control).
The largest demographic of Latinxs affected by HIV is men sleeping with men. (MSM). Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men accounted for 84% of the HIV diagnoses in Latinx communities in 2014.
Learn more about HIV/AIDS basics.
PREVENTION CHALLENGES
Education
Young boys without the proper sex education are less inclined to understand the full consequences of sexual intercourse and more inclined to a\engage in risky behavior.
Language
Language barriers may prevent Latinxs from seeking care or understanding preventive measures.
Stigma
Fear of being considered gay or promiscuous may prevent some individuals from getting tested, taking preventive measures, or speaking about their diagnosis.
Cultural factors
The types of high-risk behaviors in which Latinxs engage vary by regions. For example, individuals from Puerto Rico are more likely to contract HIV through IV drug use while individuals from Mexico are more likely to contract HIV through sexual contact with men.
Socioeconomic barriers
Poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to healthcare are big hurdles for Latinx communities when it comes to HIV prevention.
Lack of prevention resources
Some HIV resources may not take into account the specific needs of Latinx populations, leaving them under-served.
