Tag: Merck

The results of a new study by pharmaceutical giant Merck and the Prevention Access Campaign finds many young people today know little about HIV. Survey findings revealed the 1,596 respondents – who either identified as Generation Z (18-22) or millennials (23-36) – are woefully uninformed about HIV and its transmission. From the study: • 41% of Gen Z respondents were either somewhat informed or not at all informed about HIV, compared to 23% of millennials • While 67% said they were most concerned about HIV compared to other STIs, 54% did not report using condoms or PrEP. •  28% of HIV-negative millennials said they have avoided hugging or interacting with HIV-positive people, even though the virus cannot be transmitted through casual contact • 76% of those living with HIV said they were hesitant to share their status for fear of being judged • 90% of those living with HIV said they avoided sharing their status for fear of losing friends or family Bruce Richman, executive director of the Prevention Access Campaign said in a statement, ”Despite scientific advances and decades of HIV advocacy and education, the findings highlight a disturbing trend: young adults overwhelmingly are not being informed effectively about the basics of HIV.”  “These findings are a call to action that the crisis in the United States is far from over,” added Richman. “It’s time to elevate a real conversation about HIV and sexual health among America’s young people, and roll out innovative and engaging initiatives to educate and fight HIV stigma.” As a result of the survey, Merck and Prevention Access Campaign have launched a new project called Owning HIV: Young Adults and the Fight Ahead aimed at educating young Americans about HIV and elevating the urgency around the issue.