Debunking the Biggest HIV Myths in Black Communities

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HIV has come a long way since the first documented cases emerged in the U.S. over 40 years ago. Today, living well with HIV is possible with proper care and medication. Yet, harmful myths about HIV persist, fueling stigma and misinformation. These myths distract from the fact that it is treatable and people with HIV can lead long, healthy lives.

“The stigma that surrounds HIV makes it much more difficult to live with than the virus itself,” author and HIV advocate, Jessica Glaspie, told MadameNoire.

Here are three of the most common myths about HIV that still exist today. Let’s shut down these misconceptions and shed light on the truth of the matter.

Myth #1: HIV can be transmitted through casual contact.

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The truth: HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact like hugging, kissing, or sharing utensils.

HIV can only be transmitted by certain bodily fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.

Today, current HIV medicine is able to significantly reduce the risk of transmission. Antiretroviral therapy (ART), the standard and most effective treatment for managing HIV, can significantly reduce the viral load (the amount of HIV detected in the blood)—thus helping the immune system protect against illness and lowering the risk of HIV transmission.

By staying consistent with HIV care and taking medication as prescribed, it is possible to reach an undetectable viral load—meaning a standard lab test can’t detect the virus. When a person’s viral load reaches an undetectable level, HIV cannot be transmitted through sex. Most people starting ART can reach an undetectable viral load in less than a year. While ART is not a cure for HIV, it is a vital tool for living a long and healthy life.

Myth #2: HIV affects only certain groups, such as gay men or people who use drugs.

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The truth: HIV can impact anyone no matter their race, sexual orientation, gender, age, or location.

It’s a common misconception that HIV affects only certain individuals, when in fact, “anyone who engages in activities that can cause transmission of the virus can be infected,” said Glaspie, author of Life, Love, and HIV. “The rate of new infections has increased across multiple groups of people, especially our Black and Brown people who are disproportionately affected by HIV.”

Today, Black heterosexual women are disproportionately impacted by HIV, with the highest rates of new HIV diagnoses occurring in the South. Fortunately, prevention tools are available, like proper condom use, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and regular testing.

Recognizing that HIV does not discriminate is key to breaking through the shame and stigma that often prevent people from seeking care.

Myth #3: HIV and AIDS are the same thing.

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The truth: HIV and AIDS are not the same.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If left untreated, it can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), a condition where the immune system is severely weakened, making the body more vulnerable to infection and illness. This is an important distinction to make.

“A person with HIV does not automatically have AIDS. The ultimate goal of someone living with HIV is to stay healthy and not progress to having AIDS,” said Glaspie. “Someone with AIDS started by having HIV first.”

Confronting stigma with knowledge

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Compared to decades past, managing HIV is more achievable than ever. By knowing the facts, HIV can seem less frightening and easier to face.

Advocates like Glaspie prove that a full and healthy life is possible with HIV. “I encourage everyone to do their homework and educate themselves on this virus,” she said. “It is important as a society not to fuel the flames that ignite stigma.”

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