HIV Testing and Young Americans: Why You Should Get Tested

Americans...in fact all humans in general, are often threatened by the worst possible outcome. We are scared of death, we are scared of disease, we are even scared of change. Rightfully so I might add, we are often scared off by what seems like something terrible...I can't speak for everyone, but I can say, the vast majority happens to be afraid of the HIV Virus, it doesn't matter if you're Gay, Straight, Black, White...We are scared of the things that appear larger than us. When it comes to diseases, early detection and constant testing can ultimately make a world of difference. So why don't more people get tested? Is it because they feel untouchable? Is it because they are afraid of the possibility they may in fact be affected by this Epidemic? Epidemic in my personal opinion is a word, created by the Mass Media, to instill fear in others.

Living with HIV or AIDS (If Caught Early.) Is much like living with: Diabetes or Cancer, although both are incurable, there are still strides one can make to increase their life span to those without the disease. Many people have the mind set that we create as children, If We don't see it....It isn't there. Unfortunately HIV, and AIDS is in fact "There". It is something we are all in someway affected by (Even if we are in fact not infected by the disease.) It is so widely spread and diverse, we can't turn a corner, or turn on the TV without witnessing it some way...some how. The main weapon against this is Knowledge, Knowing that we can't retrieve the virus through, Hugging, Kissing, Drinking out of the same glass, Swimming in the same pool, Sleeping in the same bed...the majority of Americans believe that HIV and AIDS happens to be airborne. We could not be more wrong. We need to know that Knowledge is power, and early detection is key when it comes to tackling this virus at the core. Avoid stereotypes, such as, "Only Gay Men get the virus." "Only African Americans get the virus." "Only the irresponsible and reckless get the virus.".