AIDS in Uganda — Clinical and Social Features

Abstract

THE acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) was recognized in Africa through the study of African patients with the disease^{1 2 3 4 5} and the subsequent documentation of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).^{6 , 7} Epidemiologic studies have used case surveillance^{8 , 9} and serologic surveys^{10 , 11} to show the pattern of heterosexual transmission,¹² risk factors for acquisition,^{13 14 15 16 17} and the prevalence of infection in Africa.¹⁸ Several useful reviews on the epidemiology of AIDS in Africa have been published.^{19 20 21 22} Although intensive efforts have rightly focused on preventing further transmission, the large number of cases of AIDS will bring attention back to the clinical problems of patients with AIDS in the African context. A major issue facing African and world health officials is how to provide adequate medical care for the expected millions of African patients with AIDS.