The CDC's revised statistics regarding new HIV infections emphasizes the critical importance of early HIV testing. Startling statistics show 25% of persons infected don't know they carry the HIV virus.

Cleveland, OH (PRWEB) -- New cases of HIV infection in the U.S. have been underestimated by 40% every year for more than a decade. This was the surprising announcement made by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC HIV fact sheets) at the 17th International AIDS Conference in Mexico City.


The revised calculations mean that at least 56,000 Americans are infected with HIV annually instead of the 40,000 previously thought. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS, a disease that remains incurable. Tragically more than 15,000 Americans die of AIDS every year. Early detection is important so that treatment may begin as soon as possible and assist delaying the onset of serious complications. In addition, knowing your status will enable you to take the necessary steps in preventing the transmission of HIV to others.

These new numbers "reveal that the U.S. epidemic is - and has been - worse than previously estimated and serve as a wake-up call for all Americans," said Richard Wolitski, acting director of the division of HIV / AIDS prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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