National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NGMHAAD) aims to increase awareness of the disproportionate impact of the HIV epidemic on gay and bisexual men in the United States and encourage HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services in this population. Multiple challenges—such as racism, discrimination, homophobia, and stigma—contribute to the disproportionate impact. First recognized in 2008 by the National Association of People with AIDS, the observance also offers an opportunity to address HIV-related stigma.  

Gay and bisexual men accounted for 67 percent of new HIV diagnoses in the United States and dependent areas in 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Within this population, disparities persist among Black and African American and Hispanic or Latino gay and bisexual men, who received more new HIV diagnoses in 2022 than gay and bisexual men in other groups. In addition, young men aged 13–24 with HIV are more likely to be unaware of their HIV status than men of different age groups. 

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) HIV research program supports research to better understand and reduce HIV-related health disparities based on sexual orientation – as well as other factors such as race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and age. NIH-supported research also aims to increase access to HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services and encourage treatment adherence.  

Social Media

Use the hashtag #NGMHAAD to follow the conversation about this awareness day on social media. Download graphics and find sample social media posts on HIV.gov National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day webpage or on the CDC HIV Awareness Days webpage.