OLOL Holds Free Screenings, Prayer Service for World AIDS Day

In recognition of World AIDS Day on December 1, Our Lady of the Lake offered free, confidential HIV screenings and education throughout the week at events across Baton Rouge. A special prayer service was also be held for community members to participate in prayer and reflection for those affected by HIV and AIDS.

Screenings will also be available Sunday, December 4, at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 3912 Gus Young Ave., Baton Rouge, from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Baton Rouge has one of the highest rates of HIV and AIDS in the country. According to data from the Louisiana Department of Health, Baton Rouge is ranked No. 1 in estimated HIV and AIDS case rates among large metropolitan areas in the U.S. (44.7 and 21.6 per 100,000, respectively). As of June 30, 2016, a total of 21,106 people are living with HIV in Louisiana, and of these individuals, 11,025 have an AIDS diagnosis.

Preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS has been identified as a top priority for Baton Rouge through the Community Health Needs Assessment.  Through this integrated initiative, hospital partners have been working in a unified effort to identify specific healthcare needs in the community and implement intervention strategies to strengthen population health and contribute to an overall better community. 

 

 

 

12/01/2016