[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 163 (Thursday, November 29, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   COMMEMORATING WORLD AIDS DAY 2001

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. CARRIE P. MEEK

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 29, 2001

  Mrs. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, this Saturday, the nation and the 
World will observe World AIDS Day 2001.
  World AIDS Day provides an opportunity to focus the world's attention 
on this global pandemic. It is a day to remember those living with AIDS 
and those who have died from the disease.
  Like our recent tragedy, the HIV/AIDS pandemic has challenged many to 
have courage and hope in spite of grief, anger, and despair. More than 
60 million people worldwide have been infected with HIV since the start 
of the epidemic 20 years ago, and current statistics point to an even 
greater spread of the disease than anticipated.
  HIV/AIDS is now the leading cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa. 
Worldwide, it is the fourth biggest killer. According to a United 
Nations report, by the end of this year there will be an estimated 40 
million people living with HIV worldwide.
  In the United States, research has shown that the number of AIDS 
cases among some populations has decreased. Unfortunately, we have not 
seem similar declines in new HIV cases among people of color or our 
Nation's youth. Today, at least half of all new HIV infections in our 
country are among people under age 25. Young Americans between the ages 
of 13 and 25 are contracting HIV at the rate of two per hour.
  World AIDS Day has special significance in my community of South 
Florida, which has more HIV/AIDS cases than 44 states.
  As we observe World AIDS Day 2001, we must reaffirm our commitment to 
work together to protect all our citizens from the threat of HIV. By 
promoting, education, research and care, we can reach millions of 
individuals who face life-changing decisions that can affect their 
health and the future of our Nation and the world, and help those who 
are already affected by this disease.

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