“Women living with HIV” no longer a priority group for testing, despite higher risk of late diagnosis and lack of specialised support, according to a story on ABC News. New data shows over half of women living with HIV in the Northern Territory and Western Australia are diagnosed late, with women interviewed describing long delays in diagnosis, misinformation from health professionals and the emotional toll of living in isolation. There is an urgent call from women living with HIV in Australia to be recognised as a priority population for HIV testing and support.
Community leaders and advocates are calling for tailored testing programs, culturally safe care, and better awareness among health workers about the realities for HIV in women’s lives.
This story is a powerful reminder that HIV is not a one-size-fits all issue and that women’s experiences, especially in regional and remote areas, must be acknowledge and addressed in national HIV strategies.
Read more: abc.net.au/news/women-with-hiv-nt-want-to-be-priority-group-for-testing/
