February 7 is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD), a day dedicated to recognizing the disproportionate impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on Black communities and the importance of expanding access to HIV education, testing, treatment and prevention services. At Little River Medical Center, advancing equitable access to care is central to our mission, including at our newest location, the Aynor Health Center, which strengthens access to essential health services across the region.
HIV affects people of all backgrounds, but data continue to show a significant and persistent disparity for Black Americans. Nationally, in 2023, Black Americans accounted for 39 percent of people living with HIV and 38 percent of new HIV diagnoses, despite representing only about 12 percent of the U.S. population. HIV continues to affect Black Americans across all age groups. Notably, young Black people accounted for nearly half of all new HIV diagnoses among youth in 2023.
Prevention tools are highly effective but remain underutilized. Pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP, can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV by up to 99 percent when taken as prescribed. Yet in 2024, Black individuals represented only 15 percent of PrEP users nationwide. This gap highlights the urgent need to expand awareness of and access to PrEP through trusted healthcare providers and community based education.
The Impact in South Carolina
The impact of HIV disparities is especially pronounced in South Carolina. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health annual HIV, STD and AIDS surveillance reports, Black residents make up approximately 27 percent of the state’s population, yet account for about 63 percent of people living with diagnosed HIV.
The majority of new HIV diagnoses in South Carolina continue to occur among Black individuals, with both Black males and females disproportionately affected. Historically, Black individuals have accounted for 70 percent or more of newly diagnosed HIV cases statewide. Black residents are also more likely to be diagnosed with co occurring sexually transmitted infections compared to White individuals, reflecting long standing inequities tied to access to care, stigma and broader social determinants of health.
Why Awareness and Access Matter
Prevention strategies such as PrEP, regular STI screenings, and education play a critical role in reducing new infections. Ensuring these services are available close to home, including in rural and growing communities, is key to improving outcomes.
LRMC’s Commitment Across All Locations
Little River Medical Center offers walk in HIV screening at all LRMC sites, making testing accessible without the need for an appointment. The opening of the Aynor Health Center further expands access to preventive and primary care services while remaining connected to LRMC’s broader network of care.
LRMC is also a recipient of Ryan White funding, which allows us to provide comprehensive care for people living with HIV. These services include medical care, care coordination and support services designed to reduce barriers to consistent treatment. For individuals at increased risk, LRMC offers prevention services, including PrEP, along with education and counseling to support informed health decisions.
By providing integrated, patient-centered care across all locations, LRMC remains committed to addressing HIV disparities and supporting healthier outcomes for the communities we serve.
Moving Forward Together
Addressing HIV inequities requires sustained commitment and collaboration. National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day reminds us that awareness must be paired with action. Expanding access to testing, prevention and treatment, reducing stigma and investing in trusted community care are essential steps toward health equity.
On February 7 and throughout the year, Little River Medical Center remains committed to changing lives and serving communities by providing compassionate, accessible care for all.
Schedule an Appointment
Taking care of your health starts with access to trusted care. Schedule an appointment with Little River Medical Center today or visit any LRMC location, including the new Aynor Health Center, for walk-in HIV screening, prevention services and ongoing care.
