Skip Navigation
External Link to HHS Website Department of Health & Human Services Blue Background Blue Background
 
Link to AoA Homepage Background Background Background
  Home > Press Room > News & Information Breadcrumb Background
Clear Background Clear Background Clear Background
              

Increase Your Awareness of AIDS Prevention and Testing

Anyone at any age can get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the precursor to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). In fact, about 24 percent of all people with HIV/AIDS in this country are age 50 and older. Because HIV damages a person’s immune system, having the virus increases the risk of acquiring other life-threatening diseases, infections, and cancers. Moreover, older adults may already have other health concerns that can be further complicated by HIV.

If you think you may have HIV or have been recently at risk for contracting the disease, it is very important to get tested. Early detection and treatment increases your chances of living longer. Ask your doctor for a blood test, or test your blood at home. Free and confidential or anonymous HIV tests are available.

To find an HIV testing site near you, visit http://www.hivtest.org/

For more information on HIV and AIDS testing, prevention, and education, please visit:
The Administration on Aging
http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/AoA_Programs/HPW/HIV_AIDS/index.aspx

And additional resources can be found at:
http://www.AIDS.gov
 http://www.ACTAGAINSTAIDS.org

View previous health tip



Last Modified: 11/4/2011 12:01:20 PM
Clear Background Clear Background Clear Background