Statement On World AIDS Day

Statement

Congressman Steve Cohen released the following statement today to commemorate "World AIDS Day."

"World AIDS Day provides an opportunity to reflect upon the devastating effect of HIV/AIDS around the world. In Tennessee's Ninth District, the number of people living with HIV/AIDS grew by an astonishing 21 percent from 2004 to 2008. During that same period, the number of cases among men in our area grew by 20 percent and among women by 23 percent. African-Americans are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS; however, this virus impacts all people, regardless of socio-economic class, race, gender or location.

"We can and must do more to stop the spread of this virus. I was proud to vote for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act that will provide $619 million in federal funding over four years for the Minority AIDS Initiative to address the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on racial and ethnic minorities and the disparities in access, treatment, and care.

"Earlier this year, during my travels in Africa, I witnessed the impact that HIV/AIDS is having on the continent. America's commitment to help provide access to medicine and health care to people in the most remote parts of Africa demonstrates our nation's deep humanity and compassion. I believe that it can and will make a difference in reducing the spread of the virus among the people of Africa.

"Today, I join with all those in the Ninth District who are committed to reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS in our district, our nation, and the world."

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