AIDS: the disease, the demographics, the devastation.

The etiology and pathophysiology of AIDS are reviewed: HIV-1 infection and changes in T4 lymphocytes; secondary infections, such as Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and tuberculosis; and tumors, such as Kaposi's sarcoma. The CDC has classified HIV infection into four groups based on clinical manifestations and immune system changes. Male homosexuals and bisexuals are most at risk for HIV infection. The incidence of infection among infants and heterosexuals will increase. Public health education programs should focus on safe (monogamy, condom use) and unsafe (unprotected intercourse, anal-receptive sex) sexual practices, as well as on risky behavior, such as needle sharing. Home care management of AIDS patients is safe and cost-effective.