What is SCOOP OUT STIGMA?
ICG Foundation & Captain’s Creamery Present National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day: A Fun Day of Awareness at the Park sponsored by Gilead.
Date & Time: April 10th, 2025, from 11 am to 2 pm
Location: The Park across Inclusive Care Group & Bell Pharmacy
1246 Ray Charles Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33602
Come out and enjoy:
- Free Ice Cream from Captain’s Creamery
- Youth-Focused HIV Awareness & Prevention Info
- Fun Activities & Community Engagement
Join us to learn about the importance of HIV prevention among youth, celebrate National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day, and enjoy a sweet treat. Let’s come together to build a healthier future!
We can’t wait to see you there!
Why NYHAAD Matters
- High Proportion of New Infections: Young people aged 13–24 account for about 20% of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S.
- Low Awareness: According to the CDC, a significant portion of youth living with HIV do not know they are infected, underlining the importance of regular testing and inclusive sexual health education.
- Barriers to Care: Issues like stigma, lack of insurance, and limited access to youth-friendly services can delay crucial testing and treatment, leading to worse health outcomes over time.
What is NYHAAD?
National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day (NYHAAD): April 10
Every year on April 10, we recognize National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day (NYHAAD) to spotlight the impact of HIV on young people in the United States. It’s also a day to call attention to education, prevention, testing, and treatment efforts specifically tailored for youth.
Why NYHAAD Matters
- High Proportion of New Infections: Young people aged 13–24 account for about 20% of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S.
- Low Awareness: According to the CDC, a significant portion of youth living with HIV do not know they are infected, underlining the importance of regular testing and inclusive sexual health education.
- Barriers to Care: Issues like stigma, lack of insurance, and limited access to youth-friendly services can delay crucial testing and treatment, leading to worse health outcomes over time.
Key Stats & Facts
- Testing Gap
- Many adolescents and young adults aren’t routinely tested for HIV, often due to stigma or a perceived lack of risk. Regular testing is critical for early detection and effective treatment.
- Prevention & PrEP
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is up to 99% effective at preventing HIV when used consistently. However, many youth remain unaware of or lack access to PrEP.
- Comprehensive Sex Ed
- Studies show that inclusive, fact-based sex education helps reduce high-risk behaviors and improves overall sexual health among young people.
What You Can Do
- Get Informed
- Encourage youth to learn about HIV transmission, testing, and prevention methods. Knowledge is a powerful tool against stigma and misinformation.
- Support Testing Initiatives
- Advocate for free or affordable testing opportunities, whether through community events, clinics, or local health organizations.
- Promote Inclusive Healthcare
- Champion policies and programs that make youth-friendly, judgment-free healthcare accessible to all, especially those at higher risk.
- Speak Up
- If you’re a parent, teacher, or mentor, talk openly about HIV prevention. Open dialogue can reduce stigma and empower young people to seek help without fear.
Moving Forward
National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a call to action. By increasing awareness, expanding access to testing and prevention, and fostering inclusive healthcare for all, we can empower young people to take control of their health and thrive.
To learn more or find free testing resources in your area, visit CDC or HIV.gov. Remember, knowing your status is the first step toward better health!
