The AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin (ARCW) is currently experiencing an increase in the number of phone call inquiries regarding HIV, hepatitis C (HCV) and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). ARCW views these calls as an important, positive step to ensure people learn as much as they can about their health and STDs.

"This increase is likely a direct result of increasing awareness about the disproportionate affect HIV has in the African American community," said Michael J. Gifford, ARCW Chief Operating Officer. "Through our partnership with local radio stations and community newspapers, we are excited that more people are able to get the truth about HIV and how it is transmitted."

Through the Wisconsin HIV/STD/Hepatitis C Information and Referral Center (IRC), ARCW is also fielding questions on several other STDs such as herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis. In 2006, more than 16,400 cases of STDs were reported in Milwaukee County alone. Because having an STD makes you more at-risk for contracting HIV, it is important people know as much as they can about STDs.

"STDs--including HIV--are transmitted through sexual contact or the exchange of bodily fluids, so it is important for everyone to realize what they do that may put them at-risk for a treatable STD like chlamydia also puts them at-risk for HIV which has no cure," said Angie Clark, manager of the IRC. "It is also important for everyone to remember that STDs are preventable."

People who have had unprotected sex, had multiple sex partners, have had an STD or have shared needles for injecting drugs should be tested for HIV. Free, anonymous HIV tests are available at many places in the community including ARCW and at mobile testing locations throughout the community.

"When it comes to something as important as your health, don’t trust information you might hear on the street or from your friends. Without knowing it, people often spread bad information about STDs and HIV while trying to be helpful," said Clark. "The IRC has a lot of great information about STDs and HIV that you can get by calling or stopping by."

The overall prevalence of STDs in Milwaukee is substantial. The combined rate of infection for chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis in Milwaukee is higher than that of Chicago, Minneapolis, New York and Los Angeles. And while African Americans comprise 25% of the population in Milwaukee County, they accounted for more than 53% of reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and herpes.

"Everyone has the power to limit their exposure to HIV and other STDs by using condoms when they have sex and by not sharing used needles or syringes," said Clark. "By taking personal responsibility for your health, you can reduce your risks and lower your exposure to STDs including HIV."

HIV disproportionately affects the African American community in Milwaukee. Almost 55% of all new HIV infections in Milwaukee County in 2006 were among African Americans. While advancements continue to be made in the treatment of HIV, and people are living longer, healthier lives with HIV, there is no cure.

Currently, chlamydia is the most frequently reported STD in Milwaukee with close to 10,000 cases diagnosed in 2006. If chlamydia is left untreated it can lead to pregnancy complications and pelvic inflammatory disease. Chlamydia is a bacterial infection and as such can be treated with antibiotics.

In 2006, there were more than 4,896 reported cases of gonorrhea in Milwaukee County with most infections occurring in young people aged 15-29. Early symptoms of gonorrhea are usually mild but if it is left untreated, gonorrhea can cause blindness, joint infection or deadly blood infections. Gonorrhea is also a bacterial infection and can be treated with antibiotics.

Herpes is another common STD in Milwaukee County with 1,043 infections reported in 2006. Herpes is caused by a virus and causes blisters or sores, which often recur after the initial outbreak. While there is not a cure for herpes, antiviral medications can prevent or shorten the timeframe for outbreaks.

If you have questions about HIV or any STD, call Angie Clark with the IRC toll-free at 1-800-334-2437.