#Woman2Woman HIV Campaign Gets Black Women Talking & Tested

These days, many people get their health news and information via social media, so it’s always a blessing when a compelling image can stop you mid-scroll through your feed AND it comes with an equally compelling message. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently rolled out its #Woman2Woman social media campaign to encourage Black women to get tested for HIV, using striking imagery and true-to-life situations many can relate to.

“[CDC] developed the series to reach and appeal to broader segments of Black women in ways that are relevant to their lives, but also helps them recognize their personal risk for HIV – since we know so many people tend to underestimate their risk,” a CDC spokesperson shared via an email to BlackDoctor.org. “The goal here was to use attention-grabbing visuals, and share messaging that contextualizes the risk of HIV and provides additional considerations.”

From our partner

Do you still have gout symptoms even though you're taking medication? You’re not alone. The Kadence study is a clinical research study for adults with uncontrolled gout. Learn More

Black women remain at high risk for HIV, and represent 64% of all women living with HIV in the United States, according to the CDC.  In good news, new HIV infections among Black women are decreasing. Between 2008 and 2010, new infections decreased by 21% among black women. Despite this encouraging news, Black women remain heavily impacted by HIV – and there’s much more to be done. It’s estimated that 1 in 32 Black women will be infected with HIV in their lifetimes if current trends continue.

The new social-media friendly images are part of the Take Charge. Take the Test.™  campaign that aims to help African American women recognize their risk of getting HIV and empowers them with the information they need to take charge of their health.

With #Woman2Woman, the CDC hopes the images are a way for Black women (and those who love them) to socially share the message of HIV testing and reach their family and friends without calling them out or having the hard conversations that can easily strain relationships.

From our partner

People 16+ years old struggling with lupus: Find out if the PHOENYCS FLY Study may be for you. Study-related care provided at no cost.

View the slideshow of images, share and get tested to know your status. For testing locations in your area, click here.