Nonprofit organization launches HIV, hepatitis C health program for gay men

In an effort to improve healthcare opportunities for gay men who are infected with HIV and hepatitis C, the Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) has launched a six-week health course, which is slated to begin on October 27, MedicalNewsToday.com reports.

Established in 1982, THT was created in memory of Terry Higgins, who was one of the first people in the UK to die from AIDS. The nonprofit organization works towards raising awareness of HIV and promoting the importance of safe sexual behavior, according to the THT website.

Those who take advantage of this offering will learn about how to deal with a diagnosis, treatment options for each disease, intimacy and emotional acceptance of living with the sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The program will be taught by people who are living with HIV and hepatitis C, and health professionals from the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital will teach the medical aspects of the course.

Gordon Mundie, groupwork service manager at THT, told the news source that "living with HIV and hepatitis C can be tough emotionally as well as physically." He added that "this course will allow men to share their experiences and receive practical support in a relaxed, informal environment."