Christopher Johnson of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation joined us in studio for The Mo'Kelly Show on KFI AM640 to set the record straight as to realities of HIV infection, with respect to the assertion by Charlie Sheen that it was "impossible" that he might have infected any of his sexual partners since knowing his status.
Sheen said in his recent Today Show interview that because of his daily medical regimen the virus is at an "undetectable" level in his blood, it is impossible for him to transmit the virus (he later clarified that he meant through "protected sex.")
As we approach World AIDS Day (December 1), here are the facts.
This is for you and everyone in your family. We need to debunk the myths and address the socialization lies we tell our young men...an important hour of radio.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 50,000 people in the United States are newly infected with HIV each year and that 9 out of 10 new infections arise from people living with HIV/AIDS who are not in medical care to achieve viral suppression, including those who are unaware of their infection. The CDC also estimates that just 30% of people living with HIV/AIDS have the virus under control.
HIV is transmitted through the following methods:
* Having sex without a condom
* HIV infection can happen through anal, vaginal or oral sex without the use of a condom. Unprotected (condom-less) oral sex is not as risky as vaginal and anal, but still can spread HIV, especially when there are cuts, bleeding gums or canker sores in the mouth.
* Sharing needles, syringes or drug works.
* Sharing any of the equipment to inject drugs can spread HIV.
* Pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.
AHF's Wellness Centers provide free testing for sexually transmitted diseases, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. To find the nearest location for STD screening and treatment, visit www.freestdcheck.org
To learn about more about AHF click HERE
The Mo'Kelly Show airs Saturdays and Sundays from 6-8pm PT on KFI AM640 and 103.5FM HD2, kfiam640.com (desktop) and iHeartRadio on your smartphone (search KFI).
Morris W. O'Kelly (Mo'Kelly) is host of The Mo'Kelly Show on KFI AM640 in Los Angeles and iHeartRadio. The Mo'Kelly Report is a syndicated politics and entertainment journal. Contact him at mo@themokellyshow.com and all commentary is welcome.