Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a disease of the immune system caused by the human
immunodificiency virus (HIV).
AIDS reduces the effectiveness of the immune system, leaving people open to infections and tumors.
HIV is transmitted through direct contact with an HIV-infected bodily fluid: blood, semen,
presemenal fluid, vaginal fluid or breast milk.
This transmission happens during vaginal or oral sex, blood transfusion, contaminated
hypodermic needles, exchange between a mother and her child during pregnancy.
In 2007, statistics showed 33.2 million people lived with the disease worldwide,
with 2.1 million deaths, including 330,000 children.
Although treatments for AIDS and HIV can slow the disease, there is no cure.
The majority of HIV infections are acquired through unprotected sex between 2 people-one of whom has HIV.
The primary mode of HIV infection is sexual contact between members of the opposite sex.
During a sexual act, only male or female condoms can reduce the chances of infection with HIV
Using condoms reduces the risk of HIV transmission by approximately 80%
The male condom, if used correctly without oil-based lubricants, is the single most effective available technology to elimate HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Manufacturers recommend that oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly* or butter, not be used with latex condoms, because they dissolve the latex.
If necessary, manufacturers recommend using water-based lubricants.**
The female condom is an alternative to the male condom
Studies suggest that, where female condoms are available, overall protected sexual acts increase making them an important HIV-prevention strategy.
Studies on couples where one partner is infected show that with consistent condom use, HIV infection rates for the uninfected partner are below 1% per year.
*unsafe lubricants:Vaseline, Baby Oil. In all cases, READ THE LABEL
**safe lubricants: Liquid Silk, Astroglide, Pjur, K-Y products, Sliquid, RepHresh, Wet
Send a text with your zip code to "KNOWIT" (566948). Within seconds, you'll receive a text with an HIV testing site near you. This free service is through www.HIVtest.org.
AIDS Foundation of Chicago.
The Momentum Project, Inc.
aidschicago.org 312 922-2322
AFC is dedicated to improving the lives of Chicago residents living with AIDS. They match people living with HIV with a case manager who will help them obtain legal, medical, childcare, housing and substance abuse services.
Call the State of Illinois AIDS Hotline: 1-800-AID-AIDS
for test centers in Chicago or statewide. Or Send a text with your zip code to "KNOWIT" (566948). Within seconds, you'll receive a text with an HIV testing site near you. This free service is through www.HIVtest.org.
The AIDS Foundation of Chicago hosts World of Chocolate on Thursday, 12/3 from 6-10 pm at The Hilton Chicago: 720 Michigan Ave. Party includes live music, and chocolate creations from 30 of Chi-town's best restaurants. Tix start at $75.