We’ve come a long way from 1987, when AZT (azidothymidine), the first HIV treatment, was approved for the public. It was this pivotal moment that gave millions of people hope for the fight against the virus. Even though it was a great first step, treatment was still very limited, and prevention wasn’t possible yet.
AZT does not prevent or cure AIDS, but helps slow the progression of HIV, which causes AIDS.
Today, through extensive research, progress has brought about countless methods that not only treat HIV, but can entirely prevent it. Two of the most effective tools are PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). PrEP is taken before any possible exposure, either daily or by injection. It builds a strong defense in the body, which can help fight the virus. When correctly used, it can reduce the risk of HIV from sex by about 99%. It acts as a shield before the virus has any chance to enter.
If you’ve ever wondered if there is another way to protect yourself from contracting HIV besides condoms, there is an option. PrEP, or Pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a preventive treatment for individuals at high risk of HIV infection, and it’s an option worth exploring.
Your first question is probably does it work? When PrEP medication is taken consistently, it can not only reduce the risk of contracting HIV from sexual exposure by about 99%, but it can also decrease the likelihood of contracting HIV by at least 74% within people who inject drugs according to the CDC (CDC). This is an incredible step into the future, one in which we can look towards a possible end to the HIV epidemic.
Understanding the connections between Black women and HIV remains important today. Despite advances in treatment and medications, continued conversations and education are still needed as Black women continue to face significant disparities in HIV diagnoses and outcomes in the United States.
According to the CDC, in 2023 19% of those diagnosed with HIV were female. A closer look at the statistics shows a different picture for Black women. They accounted for 50% of HIV diagnoses, but are only 13% of the female U.S. population. They also had the highest HIV diagnosis rate among women. They were 3 times higher than Hispanic/Latino females and 11 times higher than White females.
By Tia Camille
I grew up in the 1970s, and my world was surrounded by images, stories, movies, television shows and real-life married women. For me, and most children of that time, the way of the world trained us to think marriage was the pinnacle point of love. Without it, you’d question whether you really ever found it. 
The problem? No one ever really talked about the part when marriages don’t work like mine. Facing the final proceedings in my divorce in a few weeks means this relationship that lasted more than two decades will soon come to an end. For multiple reasons, I am not one of the women mourning the loss of my marriage. No. Instead, I can firmly state it needed to end for my psychological, physical, emotional, spiritual and financial wellness. I am finally looking forward to my future with hope.
By Afrekete*
Recently, when my trusted doctor retired, it stirred emotions that I was not prepared for. As a Black woman aging with HIV, losing a provider who had become part of my healing journey felt like a gut punch, because I did not always have compassionate care.
After I was first diagnosed, I was under the care of a highly regarded White male doctor. His reputation was stellar, but for more than three years, I never reached undetectable. Every month, my labs T-cell count hovered between 365–400, and it felt like a countdown I could not control. I lived in fear of falling below 200—the number that marks an AIDS diagnosis. I feared dying.
By: Kamoria Reese
I am a sophomore majoring in Biology on the Pre-Med track, and I want to share my journey working with the Empowerment Grant this spring semester. This opportunity not only gave me professional experience, but also personal growth that I truly value.
While working on this grant, I’ve gained a lot of valuable skills. I learned how to manage my time more effectively, take constructive criticism with an open mind and, most importantly, I learned not to be afraid to speak up. Looking back on this experience, I can see that while I’ve always done well with technical tasks, communication has never been my strongest suit. As a student, I struggled to express my concerns, especially because I cared too much about what others thought of me. This fear often held me back from voicing my opinions or asking questions.
By: Kamoria Reese
In my new audio blog series, I sit down with fellow college students to explore how they navigate the complexities of dating. They candidly share their safety strategies, the challenges they encounter, and what they seek in a partner. Each conversation offers practical advice and concludes with participants describing their dating lives in just three words. Together, these stories provide relatable insights and support for anyone navigating the modern dating landscape.
In this interview, I spoke with Tay, a college sophomore majoring in film with a minor in music. Tay approaches dating with caution, but remains open to finding a lifelong partner. Throughout our conversation, she shared her perspectives on relationships, personal values, and future aspirations. Her insights offer a thoughtful look into the complexities of modern dating and the qualities she seeks in a meaningful connection.
By Karla Scipio, RN, MPH
I didn’t just choose wellness. Wellness chose me—through pain, purpose, and powerful moments that shaped my calling.
I graduated from nursing school during a time when HIV was still surrounded by fear and ignorance. We learned about gonorrhea and syphilis, but trichomoniasis and chlamydia were barely mentioned. HIV was whispered about, if mentioned at all.
I became a nurse, because I almost died during childbirth. That near-death experience shifted my life’s direction. I didn’t want to diagnose others from afar. I wanted to serve. Nursing was the path that allowed me to walk beside my patients, not above them.
By: Kamoria Reese
In this newly launched audio blog series, I engage with fellow university students to delve into their approaches to safe dating and the primary concerns they encounter. They share candid reflections on the complexities of college dating and describe the qualities they seek in a partner. Additionally, they provide advice and describe their dating experiences in just three words. Together, their narratives offer meaningful insights, support, and a sense of connection for anyone navigating the modern dating landscape.
By: Kamoria Reese
In this new audio blog series, I interview fellow college students to learn how they stay safe dating and the biggest concerns they face. I hear honest insights into the challenges of dating in college and what they desire in a partner. They also offer practical advice and describe their dating lives in just three words. Together, their experiences and perspectives offer valuable insight, support and relatability for anyone dating in today’s world.
The first interview is with Ashley, a college freshman majoring in Health Science with a minor in Biology. Ashley is actively dating in college and is hoping to find her lifelong partner. In this recording, we’ll talk about her dating standards, beliefs, and goals. She will also share advice for others who might also be dating in college.
