[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 39 (Wednesday, March 17, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E396]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HIV/AIDS AWARENESS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 17, 2010

  Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to show my support and concern 
about the widespread of the HIV/AIDS virus. My district of Brooklyn, 
New York, is considered to be the epicenter of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in 
the United States for African-Americans, women, adolescents, and 
children.
  According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental 
Hygiene, in Brooklyn, 87 percent, with 7 percent under the age of 13 
are persons of color, live with the HIV/AIDS virus. The city of 
Brooklyn was home to nearly 30 percent of the people living with HIV/
AIDS in New York City who died.
  It is important that you get tested regularly, such as, during your 
yearly physical exam; it is important, even for those who think they 
are not at risk. Early detection for persons infected with HIV, 
particularly before the infection progresses to AIDS, is vital for the 
effectiveness of treatment. There are new testing methods, such as, 
``Rapid HIV Testing'', which allows persons to receive results twenty 
minutes after being tested.
  Please take the preventative measures to protect yourself and your 
loved ones by getting tested. It is far too important not to do; so, 
please go and get tested.

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