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A new landmark report released by the Black AIDS Institute has revealed alarming data that show disproportionately high rates of HIV infections and deaths from AIDS among black gay men, why the disparities persist and are growing worse, and the urgent need for local and national leadership to immediately address the devastating health crisis.

"Black MSM continue to be first in line when it comes to need, but remain at the back of the line when it comes to assistance," said Phill Wilson, Founder and Executive Director of the Black AIDS Institute. "This report not only highlights the gaps and why they still exist after 30 years, but it also provides a blueprint for how to close the gaps and move those most at risk up to the front."

Black gay men account for 1 in 500 Americans, but represent nearly 1 in 4 new HIV infections. They are also significantly less likely to be alive three years after being diagnosed with AIDS than are white or Latino gay men. By the age of 25, black gay men have a 1 in 4 chance of becoming infected with HIV.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters said current policies do not adequately address the unique needs of black gay men in America. 

"Local and national leaders must remain vigilant in the fight against AIDS, especially in the Black community, which continues to carry the heaviest burden," Waters said. "Unless we change the way we do business, we cannot reverse the epidemic. No one should be forced to the back of the line."

The report said in order to tackle the frightening statistics, national leaders should make the fight against AIDS among black gay men a central priority and the following must be done: 

Increase access to vital services such as HIV testing, treatment and prevention services

Reduce sexually transmitted diseases 

Introduce pre-exposure preventive methods

Build sustainable community infrastructure

Implement a national plan to reduce the vulnerability of black gay men

The Black AIDS Institute also ranked 25 cities to determine which address the HIV-related needs of  black gay men most effectively, and which do not. Among the best are Washington, DC; New York, NY; and Los Angeles, CA. Gary, IN tops the worst city list followed by Memphis, TN and Richmond, VA.

Gay men account for nearly half of the approximately 1.2 million people living with HIV in the United States.