San Francisco Approves New Policy For HIV Treatment – The Department of Public Health of San Francisco announced last week new city guidelines that advise HIV patients should be prescribed antiretroviral drugs immediately upon diagnosis. Studies have indicated that in the early stage of HIV infection (when few signs of the disease are apparent) the virus causes irreversible damage that only becomes evident later. It is hoped that the new policy will increase the longevity of HIV patients; reduce the risk of AIDS-related complications, such as heart disease, cancer, and kidney failure; and reduce the rate of transmission of HIV. For more information, please see The New York Times and Bay Area Reporter articles.

ONAP Releases Community Recommendations Report For National HIV/AIDS Strategy – The Office of National AIDS Policy recently released a report of major HIV/AIDS policy recommendations following feedback from the HIV-positive community in the United States. Recommendations include increased HIV prevention and education for high-risk groups, an extension of support services for people living with HIV/AIDS, and effective coordination and evaluation of HIV prevention and treatment activities across the Federal government. The report also noted that the stigma associated with HIV diagnosis often prevents testing and enrollment in care. The recommendations will be used by federal, state, and local agencies as a resource and planning tool. For more information, please see the ONAP website.

Workshop On How To Discuss Your HIV Status With Others – Positive Impact is running a five day workshop that teaches African-American gay men skills for discussing HIV status with family, friends, and sexual partners. “Brutha, Can We Talk: A Healthy Relationships Program” is a 5-session workshop that will be held 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on April 26 through April 30 in Atlanta, GA. For more information, please see the Positive Impact website.

For a more detailed listing of HIV/AIDS related events, please check the AIDS Beacon Events Calendar.