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Konnie Huq investigates claims that British Asians are risking their lives by failing to get tested for HIV.

"I just didn't think it could happen to me - a lot of it has to do with the Asian community, we just think it's not a disease that can happen to Asian people". Safia.

Two mothers reveal what HIV/Aids has meant for them. One of them discovered she was HIV positive after splitting up with her ex husband. Another woman ,35, only found out her husband had Aids when he was in hospital. He eventually died.

British Asians are risking their lives by failing to get tested and are more likely not to be offered the test according to one leading Doctor. Dr Jyoti Dar from the Leicester Royal Infirmary says that British Asians in her city are 70 per cent more likely to receive a late diagnosis than their white counterparts. This is due to the stigma attached to the disease and the stereotypical image that Asians are not sexually promiscuous. The majority of cases are men, most of whom are older and married.

HIV specialists are calling for religious leaders to address the issue at temples and mosques but is this the right place to discuss sexual health? Will temples and mosques take up the issue and can they persuade us all to get tested in 'Are You Positive ?'

Producer : Nicola Humphries
Series Producer : Perminder Khatkar

This documentary was first broadcast on 30 November 2009 to mark World Aids Day.

Available now

30 minutes

Last on

Thu 31 Dec 2009 12:30

Broadcasts

  • Mon 30 Nov 2009 18:00
  • Thu 31 Dec 2009 12:30