Before 1981, when the first case of AIDS was reported, the disease had gone completely unrecognized. At the end of 2003, it is estimated by the CDC that 1,039,000 to 1,185,000 persons in the United States were living with HIV/AIDS, with 24-27% undiagnosed and unaware of their HIV infection. As this number represents HIV/AIDS cases across all age ranges and all racial and ethnic groups, it is important to recognize that both HIV and AIDS do not discriminate for any reason. The lives of many diverse individuals across the United States and around the world are touched by this disease in some way every single day, sometimes very unexpectedly.
Considering the growth rate of the HIV/AIDS epidemic within the past two decades, it is essential to explore the most effective ways to educate both ourselves and each other about the realities of the disease as well as treatment and prevention methods. Through this education, both as persons living with HIV/AIDS and as health care providers, it is possible to properly address needs that are specific to the disease itself. The ability to effectively address these needs offers the opportunity to foster the best conditions possible for all those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. The Red Ribbon Kiosk recognizes the important role that education and awareness play in addressing these needs and has been created in order to provide appropriate resources to any and all who may find them helpful.
