AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN

African American Women Correlation with HIV

African American Women Correlation with HIV

Since 1985, the proportion of females infected with human immunodeficiency virus (AIDS) globally has risen from 35 percent to 50 percent, with the numbers of females being infected with AIDS increasing substantially in every global region (CDC, 2006). The high levels of AIDS infection among females in African American women have serious implications for the welfare of families, as females are the main caregivers and grow most of the subsistence crops that contribute to the food security of households and communities. The high levels of female AIDS infection expose the vulnerability of females to this deadly disease and indicate high levels of discrimination against females in the region.

Human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are a new disease that was first identified by the medical community in 1982 (CDC, 2006). Although the disease has been recognized for almost 30 years, there is still no cure or vaccine, and in that period, the disease has spread to every global region. It is estimated that since the epidemic began, over 60 million people worldwide have been infected. AIDS/AIDS is acknowledged to be one of the most destructive epidemics in recorded history. The seriousness of the epidemic was acknowledged by the international community when in (1996), the United Nations Joint Program on AIDS/AIDS, or UNAIDS, was set up to lead the fight to control and eliminate the disease.

The African American Women not only suffering from HIV they are also indulge in the substance abuse. The alcohol is commonly used among the African American women, and it is widely spread in the community. African American Women reported a high rate of frequent drinking and similarly other substance abuse. It has now become most complex and prevalent problem. Substance abuse also includes use of nicotine. Researchers came across that genetic, neurochemical, and psychological is also the reality of substance abuse common in African American Women. Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)'s 2002 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that approximately 3-4 million African American women age of 12 or older suffer from substance abuse disorder. The reason behind this increasing disorder is the rising morbidity and mortality rates. HIV among the African American Women is the major health crises of United States (Sublette, 2008).

There is a negative impact of HIV on African American women and their community. The community is ...