Michigan Works to Prevent a Resurgence of HIV

Newly released CDC statistics showing alarming rises of HIV among gay and bisexual men have prompted much concern in Michigan, where these populations have made up over half of HIV diagnoses since 1997, according to the Michigan Department of Community Health.

In Michigan, state data show that the overall number of HIV infections was level from 1997 to 2001, the last year for which figures are available. But new national data from 25 states -- Michigan included -- show that HIV cases among gay and bisexual men increased 7.1 percent between 2001 and 2002. CDC data are not broken down by state.

Michigan agencies that provide HIV prevention services tailored for gay and bisexual men have been a funding priority for several years, noted Debra Szwejda, manager of HIV/AIDS prevention and intervention at the state Department of Community Health. The department is also focused on increasing testing and counseling for gay and bisexual men.

But risky behavior among gay and bisexual men has been increasing in the state, according to Craig Covey, CEO of the Midwest AIDS Prevention Project, one of the area's largest AIDS organizations. "We know there is a percentage of young men who are not using protection consistently, and we try to warn men of the continuing risks," said Covey. MAPP has conducted surveys of sexual behavior and drug and condom use since 1989.

Ferndale-based MAPP has developed a new campaign using billboards and ads in gay publications to get out old prevention messages. MAPP also leads workshops dealing with intimacy, denial, sexual behavior, substance abuse and self-esteem.

Back to other news for July 29, 2003