AIDS Foundation of Chicago

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ACTION=LIFE: Introduction

In 2004, cumulative reported AIDS cases in Illinois surpassed 30,000, making Illinois the 6th most affected state in the nation. An estimated 1,600 Illinoisans become HIV-infected each year, and more than 35,000 Illinoisans are living with HIV/AIDS. Mirroring national trends, the AIDS epidemic in Illinois continues to disproportionately affect African Americans and Latinos, who account for just 27% of the state's population, but who make up 70% of recent AIDS cases. Sexual contact continues to be the primary mode of HIV transmission in Illinois, with over 40% of recent AIDS cases attributed to male-to-male (MSM) sexual contact and 16% of cases attributed to heterosexual contact. Injection drug use remains the second leading mode of transmission, accounting for more than 23% of recent AIDS cases.

AIDS stigma and discrimination persist, creating innumerable barriers for those affected by the epidemic. Many people with HIV also face gender, sexual orientation, age, and income discrimination -factors that can limit their access to affordable housing, healthcare, and other vital services.

Past Successes, Future Challenges

Thanks to the tremendous efforts of Illinois' AIDS advocates, the Illinois General Assembly and Governor Rod Blagojevich last year enacted landmark legislation to curb injection-drug-related HIV infections. State lawmakers also passed a measure designed to reduce mother-to-child HIV infection by expanding HIV education and voluntary HIV testing for pregnant women. Another measure requires the state to make same-day, "rapid" HIV testing technology more readily available. In order to address the disproportionate impact of AIDS in communities of color, the state earmarked $3 million for HIV prevention programs serving African Americans and Latinos.

In 2004, AFC will work diligently to monitor implementation of the gains made last year, and will pursue a comprehensive strategy to expand HIV-related programs and services. Everyone in Illinois has a stake in this fight. By working in coalition—and with our elected and appointed officials—we can and must make further progress against the epidemic.

For the Record

CARE Act Faces Funding Crisis Despite the well-established need for funding increases, Congress and President Bush severely under-funded Ryan White CARE Act programs this year, limiting access to AIDS medications, medical monitoring, and other essential services for tens of thousands of HIV-positive individuals.

ADAP at the Brink Some 3,700 Illinoisans received AIDS medications through the Illinois AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) last year. The number of clients using ADAP was 11% higher in FY03 than in FY02, while the cost of medications rose 12%. With enrollment rising, the program will need increased funding to sustain services and meet new needs.

State HIV/AIDS Funding Is Critical States must fill the gap created by inadequate federal funding. Not only is the federal government under-funding AIDS prevention and care services, including ADAP, but a new focus on HIV testing (at the expense of HIV prevention funding) puts new pressure on states to sustain HIV prevention education and meet the needs of people newly identified as HIV-positive.

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Introduction

Federal Priorities

Statewide Priorities

Community Priorities

HIV/AIDS in Illinois

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This page last modified: September 21, 2006.