Three PAGNY providers from NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln gave presentations October 12th to the International Affairs division of National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. The presentations were made at the organization’s annual “Empowerment through Leadership, Communication, Education and Health Initiatives” event at the National Black Theatre in Harlem.
The theme of the event was “Avoid the Scare; Be Aware” and focused on HIV in adolescents. Presenting were: Dr. Julie Nagpal, Chief of Adolescent Medicine; Dr. Monique Collier-Nickles, Chief of Pediatrics & Adolescent Ambulatory Care Practice; and Frances Rice, Nurse Practitioner, Adult Medicine/Department of Psychiatry.
Dr. Nagpal presented on the transmission, prevention and diagnosis of the HIV disease, where she talked about prevention and methods of testing for the illness.
Dr. Monique Collier-Nickles talked about the treatment and disclosure of HIV, including the myths and truths of the disease. She discussed the stigmas associated with HIV and how to support friends and loved ones who has been diagnosed.
Frances Rice spoke about the United Nations’ role in fighting HIV/AIDS, the danger the disease poses to global health, and how the UN plays a central part in developing and shaping the anti-AIDS agenda. She also talked about why healthcare is under pressure as governments struggle to address the growing demands of HIV treatment.
Some 60 young people attended the event. The women’s organization is planning a larger summit to be held next year.