The risk of AIDS: psychologic impact on the hemophilic population

The psychologic impact of the risk of the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) was evaluated by questionnaire survey of 116 hemophiliacs, age 16 or older, and 40 mates and 94 parents of hemophiliacs. Although the mean group distress ratings indicate a lessening of emotional discomfort over time, ongoing distress as well as interference with life activities are reported. Parents indicate more distress than either hemophiliacs or mates. Health preoccupation, the fear of being contagious, interference with parent-child intimacy and sexual intimacy between hemophiliac and mate are noted. A significant decrease in the use of clotting factor concentrates for the treatment of bleeding episodes is reported because these products have been linked to the transmission of AIDS. Although the overall hemophilic population is coping effectively with the AIDS risk, some hemophiliacs are at increased risk for psychiatric morbidity, social isolation, hypochondriasis, and medical noncompliance. Increased parental anxiety is likely to lead to over-protective child-rearing practices. Although it examines only the hemophilic population, this study describes stress responses likely to be present in other at risk groups and suggests that specific psychosocial interventions are urgently needed.