Almost half of all HIV-positive individuals in the United States are of African-American descent; this statistic sits at the core of the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) new HIV Awareness campaign, named “i know.”

The “i know” campaign is one component of a national program called “Act Against AIDS,” which aims to increase knowledge regarding HIV and AIDS in the African-American community.

Although African-Americans make up 12 percent of the nation’s population, they account for half of all new HIV diagnoses as well as half of all people living with the disease in this country.

The umbrella program, “Act Against AIDS,” serves to increase HIV and AIDS awareness among all demographic groups. It provides facts about HIV and AIDS, testing information, and real stories from HIV patients and families.

The “i know” program specifically encourages young African-Americans to talk about HIV and related prevention methods. The program’s Web site features resources for learning more about the disease as it applies to this specific group, as well as resources for finding HIV testing sites.

Both “Act Against AIDS” and “i know” provide opportunities for people to get involved in the awareness movement. The CDC suggests that the best way to get involved is by spreading the word about HIV and AIDS issues. The “i know” Web site provides buttons, badges, and banners that patrons can post to their Web sites and social networking profiles.

For more information please see the i know Web site.