| pubmed-article:3490811 | pubmed:otherAbstract | PIP: Although there have been significant gains in knowledge about acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) since the 1st International Conference on AIDS in 1985 and some reason for hope that the epidemic can be controlled in developed countries, reports presented to the 2nd Conference (1986) indicated that AIDS will be a more formidable challenge than was originally recognized. There remains disagreement about the name and taxonomy responsible for the AIDS virus. Specifically, Montagnier and Levy have classified the AIDS virus in the lentivirus subfamily of retroviruses, while Gallo maintains it has more in common with other lymphotropic viruses and should be placed with ten in a separate category. Both the heterogeneity of the AIDS virus and its evolution within individual hosts complicate efforts to develop a vaccine that is effective against all strains. Even the clinical manifestations of AIDS vary among risks groups and may be changing within risk groups (e.g., the decline in Kaposi's sarcoma in homosexual men with AIDS). There are further differences in terms of risk groups. In developed countries, HIV infection has been limited to bisexual and homosexual men, intravenous drug abusers, prostitutes, recipients of blood and blood products, and their sexual contacts and children. In developing countries, especially in Africa, HIV infection is concentrated primarily among non-drug-using, non-homosexual men and women. In the US and Western Europe, HIV transmission has been slowed by blood screening, the purification of blood products, and health education aimed at reducing high-risk behaviors. In the Third World, however, risk groups remain unidentified, many governments are resistant to acknowledging AIDS, and resources for preventive activities are not available. | lld:pubmed |
