THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF HIV AND AIDS - CURRENT TRENDS

More than half a million cases of AIDS have now been reported in the U nited States. AIDS incidence is rising fastest among women and minorit y populations, and among persons infected by heterosexual contact or i ntravenous drug use. Domestically, the impact of HIV/AIDS on nonurban areas is increasing. Globally,infection rates are rising steeply in so me countries although being held in check in others. Emerging insights into the molecular epidemiology of HIV may improve our understanding of HIV transmission dynamics. Clinicians must participate actively in promoting interventions proven to be effective in reducing new infecti ons.