FRANKFORT, KY (Aug. 9, 2004) -- The Ninth Annual African-American and Hispanic Leadership Conference on HIV/AIDS will be held at Lexington's Holiday Inn North, 1950 Newtown Pike, Sept. 10-11. The conference is sponsored by the Kentucky Department for Public Health, HIV/AIDS Branch of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

In Kentucky, the AIDS rate among African-Americans is about six times greater than for whites and other races. Nationally, AIDS is the leading cause of death for African-Americans ages 25 to 44. African-Americans make up 7 percent of Kentucky's population, yet they accounted for 33 percent of AIDS cases diagnosed in 2003.

AIDS among the Hispanic population in Kentucky has increased recently. From 1982 to 1996, no more than six cases of AIDS were diagnosed among Hispanics in any year. However, in 1997, 12 cases were diagnosed. The Hispanic AIDS rate declined in 1999, but rapidly rose again, peaking at 12 cases diagnosed in 2002. Since 1999, a total of 39 new cases of AIDS have been diagnosed among Hispanics.

The conference will provide information regarding the impact of HIV/AIDS among African-Americans and Hispanics and encourage those who attend to become active in education and prevention efforts in their communities.

"We hope Kentucky's African-American and Hispanic leaders and all those concerned about this public health issue will attend the conference to help in the fight to minimize the impact of HIV and AIDS," said Ramonda Yocum HIV/AIDS Minority Initiatives Coordinator. "The influence, involvement and support of African-American and Hispanic leaders is vital to successful HIV and AIDS prevention efforts in their communities."

Advance registration is recommended. Cost of the conference is $25 for those who register before Aug. 12 and $35 thereafter.

For registration or additional information contact Ramonda Yocum, HIV Prevention Minority Initiatives Coordinator, at 502-564-6539 or by e-mail at Ramonda.Yocum@ky.gov .