National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day is observed each year on April 10 to highlight the impact of HIV and AIDS in young people, as well as to recognize ongoing efforts to reduce HIV and AIDS in this population. This awareness day, which started in 2013, is directed by the Advocates for Youth.

In 2020, youth ages 13–24 years accounted for 20% of all new HIV diagnoses in the United States and dependent territories. Adolescence and young adulthood are critical periods of human development and an important time to lay the foundations of good health. Some factors that contribute to the HIV burden are early sexual debut, unprotected sex, and a lack of knowledge about HIV and sexual health. It is important for youth to receive prevention services, such as sexual education at schools. Condom use has decreased among sexually active students from 60% in 2011 to 52% in 2021; however, fewer students are currently sexually active. The percentage of youth who have ever had sex decreased from 47% in 2011 to 30% in 2021. Getting tested is key for prevention, and only 6% of high school students have ever been tested for HIV (HIV Information and Youth, CDC). 

To learn more, browse the links on HIVinfo’s National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day page.