According to our Guide to HIV / AIDS, Mark Cichocki, R.N., there are approximately 1.1 million people living with HIV in the United States. Of those 1.1 million people, 20% have no idea they are infected. Why is HIV testing so important? Cichociki notes in a recent blog post that 70% of the estimated 56,000 new infections that are reported every year are caused by the 20% of infected persons that are unaware of their HIV status.
In order to stop the spread of HIV, we all need to be aware of our HIV status. Understandably, there is a lot of emotion and concern that one feels when making the decision to be tested. Many people would rather go on living their lives oblivious to the fact that they are HIV positive.
There are several ways you can be tested for HIV, but did you know that you can be tested at your dental office? Last year, I interviewed Dr. Catrise Austin, a dentist in New York City that offers HIV testing to her patients. If you are at all nervous about being tested for HIV, I suggest that you read my interview with Dr. Austin on how she incorporated the OraQuick ADVANCE Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test into her dental office.
HIV / AIDS is responsible for a number of dental problems, that only add to the list of physical and emotional concerns persons infected with HIV/AIDS experience. When you are aware of your HIV status, you can begin treatment for HIV that may help to improve your day-to-day quality of life.
HIV status is such an emotionally-charged issue.
Bringing it to the forefront is a noble effort as a dental professional. However, it could be a PR disaster.
People won’t want to go to a dentist associated with HIV. Can you imagine moms with their tots visiting a place that actively promotes HIV testing?
Joe Bulger DDS
Visit my dental blog – Toronto Dentist Smile Blog
National HIV Testing Day encourages people of all ages to “Take the Test, Take Control.” because you can begin treatment for HIV that may help to improve your day-to-day quality of life.
National HIV Testing Day encourages people of all ages to “Take the Test, Take Control.” because you are aware of your HIV status, you can begin treatment for HIV that may help to improve your day-to-day quality of life.
HIV is an infection that is easily transmitted, especially now that people have the capacity to travel around the world, and as with the disease. But because of the alarming era of HIV, people are warned intently and educated more by its prevention. But of course some still get infected, and still the infection continues to spread globally. As research broadens its scope, a lot of ways in the field of medicine are revealed on how to detect HIV and it includes Dental. Maryville TN, has been practicing this procedure and encouraging people to be tested, most especially the youth.
I agree! It is not advisable to go to a dentist to check if you are positive in HIV. But this is good post!
Andre