An overview of HIV prevention in the United States
Article Abstract:
The most effective way to combat AIDS in the US is to prevent HIV infection. As of 1996, there were an estimated 700,000 to 900,000 Americans infected with HIV. One-third of AIDS cases are linked to intravenous drug use. Consequently, the need for needle exchange programs and drug treatment programs is great. Early sex education in schools may reduce heterosexual transmission of HIV. Research has shown that these educational programs do not increase promiscuous behavior in teenagers. Efforts must be made to reach blacks and Hispanics, who are most at risk for HIV infection.
Publication Name: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes and Human Retrovirology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 1077-9450
Year: 1997
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Science, politics, and AIDS prevention policy
Article Abstract:
The US political landscape during the early AIDS epidemic may have contributed to its spread. The first cases of AIDS in the US were reported shortly after Reagan became president. The conservative nature of the Reagan/Bush administrations prevented a national sex survey to determine how AIDS could be prevented. Even in the late 1990s, the US Congress refuses to legalize needle exchange programs even though studies have shown these programs can reduce the spread of HIV. Activists in local communities have finally spurred action from the US Public Health Service.
Publication Name: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes and Human Retrovirology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 1077-9450
Year: 1997
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Anti-HIV-1 activity of inorganic polyphosphates
Article Abstract:
Inorganic polyphosphates appear to have antiviral activity. Inorganic polyphosphates are naturally occurring polymers that are present in human tissue. Researchers tested the ability of inorganic polyphosphates to prevent infection of a cell line by HIV. The long-chain inorganic polyphosphates were very effective in preventing HIV infection. It appears that the inorganic polyphosphates bind to the CD4 molecule of T cells, preventing HIV from attaching to it. Inorganic polyphosphates do not appear to protect T cells once they have been infected, however.
Publication Name: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes and Human Retrovirology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 1077-9450
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
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