HIV/AIDS in U.S. Communities of Color

Book excerpt: More people in communities of color are contracting, living with, and being treated for HIV/AIDS than ever before. In 2005, 71% of new AIDS cases were diagnosed in people of color. The rate of HIV infection in the African-American community alone has increased from 25% of total cases diagnosed in 1985 to 50% in 2005. Latinos similarly comprise a disproportionate segment of the AIDS epidemic: though they make up only 14% of the U.S. population, 20% of AIDS cases diagnosed in 2004 were Latino/a. Though the number of racial and ethnic minority HIV/AIDS cases continues to grow, the health care community has been unable to adequately meet the unique medical needs of these populations. African-American, Latino/Latina, and other patients of color are less likely to seek medical care, have sufficient access to the health care system, or receive the drugs they need for as long as they need them. HIV/AIDS in Minority Communities acknowledges the prevalence of HIV/AIDS within minority communities in the U.S. and strives to educate physicians about the barriers to treatment that exist for minority patients. By analyzing the main causes of treatment failure and promoting respect for individual and cultural values, this book effectively teaches readers to provide responsive, patient-centered care and devise preventive strategies for minority communities. Comprehensive chapters contributed by physicians with extensive experience dealing with HIV/AIDS in minority communities cover issues as far-reaching as: anti-retroviral therapy; dermatologic manifestations and co-morbidities of the disease in patients of color; unique risks to women and MSMs of color; participation of minority cases in HIV research; and substance abuse and mental health issues.