“It’s unfortunate to see the stats … they are not evenly distributed.”
That sobering assessment from Dr. Zandraetta Tims-Cook, medical director and primary physician at Faebris Infectious Disease Medical Practice in Atlanta, sets the tone for a conversation that is as urgent as it is overdue. While medical advancements have transformed HIV from a fatal diagnosis into a manageable condition, its impact continues to fall disproportionately on Black communities — especially Black women.
Despite making up a relatively small percentage of the U.S. population, Black women face dramatically higher rates of HIV infection compared to their white counterparts. And contrary to lingering stereotypes, the reasons have far less to do with individual behavior than many assume.
Breaking the myth: It’s not about promiscuity
“HIV transmission does not require having multiple partners… all it takes is one encounter with someone living with HIV.”
One of the most damaging misconceptions, Dr. Tims-Cook explains, is the idea that HIV risk is tied to promiscuity or lifestyle choices. In reality, risk is often shaped by environment and circumstance.
HIV spreads through networks — through communities, neighborhoods, and even zip codes. In regions like the American South, including Atlanta, higher prevalence rates mean greater exposure risk, even when behaviors are the same as those in lower-prevalence areas.
“It’s the proximity,” she emphasizes. “Someone in Atlanta may face a very different risk than someone in a place like South Dakota — even if their behavior is identical.”
The hidden factor: Geography and social networks
The concept is simple but powerful: where you live matters.
Communities often share social and romantic networks. When HIV prevalence is higher within those networks, the likelihood of exposure increases — even for individuals making cautious or limited choices.
“We live, work, love, and connect in the same spaces,” says Dr. Tims-Cook. “And that shapes risk in ways people don’t always recognize.”
Prevention has evolved — but access hasn’t
“We have tools that are incredibly effective — approaching 100% protection — but not everyone is using them.”
Gone are the days when abstinence was the primary prevention message. Today, medical science offers powerful tools like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), including long-acting injectable options such as Apretude.
These treatments can drastically reduce the risk of contracting HIV. Yet a troubling gap remains: the communities most at risk are often the least likely to access or be offered these options.
Why?
- Lack of awareness among patients
- Provider bias or assumptions
- Limited outreach in high-risk communities
“Sometimes women don’t know they’re at risk,” Dr. Tims-Cook explains. “And sometimes providers don’t offer prevention because of how they perceive the patient.”
A new model of prevention: Modern, practical, effective
“Think of it as responsible adulting in the 21st century.”
One of the most promising advances is long-acting injectable PrEP—administered just six times a year. No daily pill. No guesswork. Just consistent protection.
For many women balancing careers, families, and relationships, this kind of convenience can be life-changing.
Talking to the next generation
“Teens today aren’t that different from how teens have always been.”
Avoiding the conversation about sex doesn’t prevent it — it only increases risk. Dr. Tims-Cook advocates for honest, proactive discussions with young people.
Parents, schools, and even faith-based organizations are beginning to bridge the gap, offering education that is both realistic and empowering.
“You want them prepared before it happens — not after.”
Living — and thriving — with HIV
“Your dreams don’t end with a diagnosis.”
For those who do contract HIV, the outlook today is vastly different than it was decades ago. With proper treatment, individuals can live long, healthy, fulfilling lives.
Public figures like Magic Johnson helped change perceptions when he announced his diagnosis in 1991. At the time, effective treatment was limited. Today, it’s widely accessible — even for those without financial means — thanks in part to programs like the Ryan White CARE Act.
“All the things you planned for your life — family, career, longevity — are still possible.”
Updating Our Mindset
“We need to update how we think about HIV.”
Dr. Tims-Cook offers a powerful analogy: just like updating a smartphone, our understanding of HIV needs a reset.
The reality is simple:
- Anyone who is sexually active can be at risk
- Risk is not always visible or predictable
- Prevention is available — and highly effective
“Even if it’s your spouse, your long-term partner — you are still HIV possible.”
The Call to Action
The message is clear: awareness must turn into action.
- Get informed about HIV risk and prevention
- Ask your provider about PrEP and other options
- Have honest conversations with partners and family
- Use available resources to stay protected
Because this isn’t just a medical issue — it’s a community issue.
And as Dr. Tims-Cook makes clear, the time to act is now.
Learn More
For more information on prevention and treatment options, visit: Apretude.com
Or connect with local providers in your area to explore your options.
“We all have the ability to protect ourselves. The question is — will we use it?”