Posted by Karla Rothan

HIV infection is on the rise in our community. For so many years this was not the case but recent studies show that more and more gay men in their 30’s and 40’s are getting HIV.  It has been difficult for some in our community to consistently maintain safe behaviors. Alcohol and drug abuse are key factors. Individuals who are using are more likely to engage in unsafe sex. There are many men who are living two lives unable to accept their homosexuality.  They have unprotected sex with other men and then bring HIV home to their wives or female lovers. One of our missions at the Center on High is to build self esteem in our LGBT community and reduce negative feelings about one’s sexual orientation. We have a free coming out group for men on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month and also a men’s discussion group on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Stonewall Columbus partners with CATF on the 1st Thursday and 2nd Saturday of every month for free HIV testing. The test utilizes an oral swab that requires no blood and no needles. Results are ready in 30 minutes and counselors are on hand to help. Please check out the Stonewall programs on our website a http://www.stonewallcolumbus.org. 

To read more information about the new studies concerning HIV go to http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/conditions/09/12/hiv.blacks.gays/index.html