Trump Administration Considers Cuts to CDC’s HIV Prevention Program, Raising Concerns
The Trump administration is reportedly considering deep cuts to the CDC's HIV Prevention Division.
The CDC's HIV prevention program accounts for nearly all federal spending on HIV prevention efforts, totaling about $1 billion annually.
In 2022, CDC-funded programs conducted over 22 million HIV tests, identifying about 8,000 new HIV cases.
HIV infections in the U.S. declined by 12% between 2018 and 2022, with even greater reductions in areas receiving additional federal funding.
Advocates warn that cutting prevention funding could lead to increased HIV infections and reverse recent progress.
The potential cuts contradict Trump's 2019 "Ending the HIV Epidemic" initiative, which aimed to reduce new HIV infections by 90% by 2030.
HHS states no final decision has been made and suggests work would continue elsewhere in the department if cuts occur.
HIV prevention advocates express concerns about disrupting established relationships and program effectiveness if funding or organization changes.
The cuts are being considered as part of broader efforts to reduce federal spending and reorganize HHS.
Public health experts and advocacy groups strongly oppose the potential cuts, warning of "catastrophic" consequences for HIV prevention efforts.