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The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in gay men

H W Jaffe, A M Hardy, W M Morgan

    Annals of Internal Medicine
    |November 1, 1985
    PubMed

    Insights

    Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) significantly impacts gay men in the US, with high prevalence and risk factors identified. Safer lifestyles are key to controlling AIDS spread in this population.

    Area of Science:

    • Public Health
    • Epidemiology
    • Virology

    Background:

    • Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) represents a critical health issue for gay men in the United States.
    • This population accounts for a substantial majority of reported cases, with projections indicating a doubling in the near future.
    • AIDS has become a leading cause of premature mortality among men aged 25-44 in major urban centers like Manhattan and San Francisco.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To assess the prevalence of AIDS and related conditions in a cohort of gay men.
    • To identify the presence of antibodies to human T-lymphotropic virus, type III/lymphadenopathy-associated virus (HTLV-III/LAV) in this population.
    • To determine behavioral risk factors associated with increased AIDS risk.

    Main Methods:

    • A cohort of gay men attending a San Francisco clinic was studied.
    • Prevalence of AIDS and related conditions was determined.
    • Serological testing for HTLV-III/LAV antibodies was conducted on participant sera.
    • Behavioral factors were assessed through interviews or questionnaires.

    Main Results:

    • In 1984, 2.7% of the cohort had AIDS, and 26% had related conditions.
    • HTLV-III/LAV antibodies were detected in 67% of the men, including 58% of asymptomatic individuals.
    • High numbers of sexual partners, receptive anal intercourse, and "fisting" were identified as behavioral risk factors.

    Conclusions:

    • The study highlights the significant burden of AIDS within the gay male community.
    • The high seroprevalence of HTLV-III/LAV, even in asymptomatic men, underscores the need for widespread awareness and testing.
    • Behavioral interventions promoting safer lifestyles are crucial for controlling the epidemic among gay men.

    Keywords:
    Acquired Immunodeficiency SyndromeAmericasBehaviorDeveloped CountriesDeveloping CountriesDiseasesHiv InfectionsHomosexualsLife StyleMeasurementMortalityNorth AmericaNorthern AmericaPrevalenceResearch MethodologySex BehaviorSocial BehaviorUnited StatesViral Diseases

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