HIV Prevention Takes Center Stage at Alabama State University’s Homecoming

Celebrating ASU Homecoming with ViiV Healthcare — creating lasting connections (Photo Credit: ViiV Healthcare) In an inspiring and community-driven effort, Alabama State University (ASU) partnered with ViiV Healthcare during its 2024 Homecoming to address a pressing public health issue: HIV prevention and awareness.  The Importance of HIV Awareness at HBCUs The partnership between ASU and ViiV Healthcare is more than just a health campaign; it’s a targeted response to a growing epidemic that disproportionately affects Black communities, especially in the southern United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 50 percent of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S. occur in the southern region. Within this demographic, young people aged 13 to 24 — particularly from Black and Brown communities — are at an increased risk, with nearly 50 percent of new HIV cases in this age group affecting Black youth. For Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) like ASU, which have a strong cultural influence and close-knit communities, homecoming events provide a unique opportunity to raise awareness and reduce stigma around HIV. BlackDoctor.org spoke with Dr. Alftan Dyson, PharmD, Regional Medical Lead and US DEI Medical Engagement Lead at ViiV Healthcare to discuss the pivotal...