NCJ Number
116217
Journal
New England Journal of Public Policy Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter/Spring 1988) Pages: 59-79
Date Published
1988
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the statistics and epidemiological facts about AIDS and argues for broadened public policy to promote the surveillance of communities to enhance the effectiveness of data gathering for epidemiological reasoning, analysis, and control measures.
Abstract
To accomplish these goals, the essential characteristics of epidemiology are defined. The use of deductive and inductive reasoning is applied to describe and analyze known facts concerning the AIDS epidemic. Hypotheses are suggested from current amorphous and continually changing information to aid in developing further explanations of the epidemic and in evaluating methods of prevention and control. Current policies related to sexually transmitted diseases are also reviewed briefly to identify epidemiological concerns and to assist policymakers. Implications for public policy are discussed in the context of seeking epidemiological information for the ultimate protection of the public good. Table and 80 reference notes. (Author abstract modified)