The hidden burden of HIV in the undocumented immigrant population of the United States

Abstract

Abstract In the United States, approximately 1.1 million people have HIV, and 15% of them are unaware of their disease. The United States has one of the larger populations of undocumented residents in the world. These undocumented residents pose an equal risk of HIV infection and transmission as U.S. citizens. Migration status, strict policies, fear of deportation, and low-income status prevents these individuals from seeking HIV screening and treatment options.For the United States to achieve robust HIV prevention and treatment, more organizations and services are needed to address HIV infections and transmissions among undocumented residents.