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Sports In The Age Of HIV And Aids

Twenty-four years after being diagnosed with HIV, Steve Harrington is still here -- a fact he attributes to medication and a love of basketball, which keeps him physically fit and mentally focused. (David C. Barnett/ideastream)
Twenty-four years after being diagnosed with HIV, Steve Harrington is still here -- a fact he attributes to medication and a love of basketball, which keeps him physically fit and mentally focused. (David C. Barnett/ideastream)

After a week of running, jumping, figure skating and even sport dancing, the International Gay Games wrap up tomorrow in Cleveland.

When the Gay Games began in 1982, HIV/AIDS had just been recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 36 million people have died from the disease. An equal number live with HIV.

And while drug cocktails are helping to keep more athletes alive, strict safety precautions are in force on the courts and fields to protect against spreading of the disease. From the Here & Now Contributors Network, David C. Barnett of WCPN reports from Cleveland.

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