National Asian and Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is observed annually on May 19 to highlight the unique needs and experiences of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (A/PI) communities affected by HIV. As we commemorate this day, we look to the latest data from New York State and New York City to better understand how A/PI New Yorkers are engaging in HIV prevention, care, and treatment.

In 2023, 2,930 Asian and Pacific Islander New Yorkers were living with diagnosed HIV; 2,810 identified as Asian and 120 as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (NHPI). Among these individuals:

• 86% of Asians and 88% of NHPIs had evidence of HIV care.
  
• 67% of Asians and 66% of NHPIs were retained in continuous care (at least 2 tests, at least 91 days apart, during the year).
  
• 82% of Asians and 81% of NHPIs achieved viral suppression.
  

These care continuum outcomes reflect strong engagement with HIV treatment and care, contributing to improved health outcomes and reduced transmission risk across A/PI communities.

New York City is home to a large and diverse A/PI population. Of the estimated 2,600 A/PI people living with HIV(diagnosed and undiagnosed) in NYC, 88% are in care and 89% are virally suppressed. Notably, 42% of these individuals, approximately 1,100, reside in Queens, emphasizing the importance of localized outreach and culturally responsive care in this borough.

HIV testing is a critical step in prevention and linkage to care. In 2023, 14% of Asian and Pacific Islander New Yorkers reported getting tested for HIV in the past year, a significant increase from 8.6% in 2022. This brings A/PI testing rates close to the statewide average of 14.3%. However, they remain lower than rates among Black (26%) and Hispanic (23.2%) populations, indicating opportunities to further expand HIV testing access and education in A/PI communities. Explore more HIV testing data here.

To learn more about HIV testing options and culturally affirming services in your area, visit the NYS HIV Provider Directory.