(photos courtesy of Tasia Williams, SAMAC intern)

by Tasia Williams

On Wednesday, August 23 from 11 am – 2 pm, Blazers had the opportunity to receive free HIV and STI testing, courtesy of Wellness Promotion’s “Let’s Get SexuWELL” initiative. This event was a partnership between Wellness Promotion and AIDS Alabama. The AIDS Alabama testing bus was parked conveniently on the Campus Green. Arnissa Tyson, Prevention Outreach Lead for AIDS Alabama, expressed her excitement at partnering with UAB. “UAB is very broad, so even if I don’t reach my target audience, I can still get my message out to someone.” In addition to testing, there was a table with informational pamphlets about STI and HIV risk for students to take with them.

“Let’s Get SexuWELL” aims to encourage Blazers to be proactive in caring for their sexual health. Tyson commented on the importance of testing and health education: “To know better is to do better. A lot of times, we put our health at risk without even knowing it.”

Although many stigmas still surround HIV testing, it is crucial for maintaining sexual health. Wellness Promotion Communications Coordinator T’Kiyah Threatt said, “Students may not want to let their relatives know about their risk, so [offering this service on campus] is a more confidential option,” Due to stigma, many individuals avoid being tested for STIs. If STIs are left undetected, individuals are at greater risk for HIV, infertility, and reproductive cancer. One student who received testing remarked, “I’m glad they are making resources available. By doing outreach, they are able to reach people who may be falling through the cracks.”

“Let’s Get SexuWELL” is a recurring event. Details about future sessions can be found on Engage or the Campus Calendar.