"...the global HIV/AIDs epidemic, through its devastating scale and impact, constitutes a global emergency and one of the most formidable challenges to human life and dignity, as well as to the effective employment of human rights."
-- Declaration of Commitment on HIV/AIDS, 25-27 June 2001

HIV/AIDS is still a major health issue with no known cure. Even though it can be prevented, the epidemic has not gone away and instead continues to spread. Turks and Caicos Islanders need to be involved in helping to stop the spread of this disease. Support from every segment of society is essential because HIV/AIDS is not just a health issue, it is a community issue. Community action means that schools, churches, civil organizations and individuals must come together to support those living with HIV and their families and to reduce the stigma and discrimination attached to HIV. Those who are living with HIV/AIDS deserve acceptance, encouragement and understanding.

Impact of HIV/AIDS in TURKS AND CAICOS

• At the end of 2005, the cumulative number of People Living with HIV in Turks and Caicos was an estimated 344.
• As of 30 November 2006 there were approximately 70 persons receiving medical care for HIV or other opportunistic infections through the public health system.
• Transmission of HIV continues to be mainly through heterosexual contact (sex between men and women) .
• Younger people are most at risk for HIV because they continue to take chances, want to experiment and/or are not skilled to make safe decisions.
• Over 20,000 condoms are distributed on a yearly basis throughout the islands.