The AIDS epidemic in south Florida: black non-Hispanics in our communities remain increasingly vulnerable

Abstract

We compared demographic variables of individuals in Miami-Dade County, Florida, USA, with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) during two time periods (1993 - 1995 and 2009 - 2011). Incidence and mortality-related data were explored in this observational study. Tests of significance were performed to identify differences or associations between selected groups. A correlation analysis was conducted to identify relationships between AIDS diagnosis and socioeconomic indicators. We observed a reduction in the number of new AIDS cases reported and AIDS-related mortality. Nonetheless, AIDS is still disproportionately affecting the black non-Hispanic population. Black non-Hispanic women remain particularly vulnerable to the disease. A positive correlation between AIDS diagnosis and poverty rate and the lack of health insurance, and a negative correlation between AIDS diagnosis and education level were identified. Though the actual number of AIDS cases is declining in this region, it continues to disproportionately affect the poorer, less well educated communities. Despite the availability of improved medication, people in these communities remain particularly vulnerable.