NCJ Number
116497
Journal
Public Health Reports Volume: 102 Issue: 2 Dated: (March-April 1989) Pages: 224-231
Date Published
1989
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper examines three areas of concern on AIDS in the black population: differences from whites in patterns of transmission of the infection, cultural factors that may affect health education efforts, and ethnically relevant issues in the provision of medical care to black persons with AIDS.
Abstract
The epidemiologic pattern of infection in the black population differs from that of whites. Approximately 25 percent of persons diagnosed with AIDS are black, although blacks represent only 12 percent of the American population. In addition, epidemiologic patterns of viral transmission in the black community suggest a greater incursion into the heterosexual population. The report also focuses on educational efforts geared towards slowing the rate of transmission of AIDS. These efforts need to be sensitive to cultural and behavioral differences between blacks and whites. The document discusses psychological, sociocultural, and medical care issues relevant to caring for black AIDS patients, such as patient-physician communication and ethical issues. Recommendations for research and health education efforts in the black community are presented. 54 references. (Author abstract modified)