The latest HIV Surveillance Annual Report for New York City reveals an alarming increase in HIV diagnoses, with health officials raising concerns about potential federal budget cuts that could jeopardize essential prevention services. In 2024, there were 1,791 new HIV diagnoses citywide, marking a 5.4% increase from the previous year.
On Staten Island, the report indicates there were 39 new diagnoses of HIV in 2024. Currently, 2,608 residents in the borough are living with the virus, and the report notes 44 HIV-related deaths during the same period. The data highlights significant racial and ethnic disparities, with approximately 86% of newly diagnosed individuals being Black or Latino/Latina.
Systemic Issues Contributing to Disparities
The report attributes these disparities to a range of systemic factors, including structural racism, poverty, and inadequate access to healthcare. According to a press release from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, these issues have resulted in a disproportionate impact on marginalized communities.
As the city grapples with these challenges, looming federal funding cuts have added to the urgency of the situation. Proposals from the federal government suggest closing the entire Division of HIV Prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and eliminating $755 million in CDC funding for HIV prevention programs. Should these cuts be enacted, New York City’s health department would face a loss of over $41 million in funding, which is crucial for identifying newly diagnosed individuals, connecting them to treatment, and providing partner services.
Progress Stalls Despite Historical Gains
Over the past 25 years, New York City has made significant strides in reducing HIV diagnoses, with numbers declining by more than 70% since 2001. Yet, city health experts express concern that progress has stalled.
“In the last three decades, we’ve made immense progress toward ending the HIV epidemic in New York City,” said Dr. Michelle Morse, Acting Health Commissioner. “Yet this progress has stalled as new diagnoses have increased or remained stable for the fourth year in a row.”
As the city confronts these challenges, the focus remains on ensuring that funding and resources are sustainable to combat the rising number of HIV cases and to continue the fight against the epidemic. The combination of increased diagnoses and potential funding cuts presents a critical moment for public health efforts in New York City.
