The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome--a review of the global situation

Abstract

The Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was first recognised in the United States in 1981. Since then, a pandemic had occurred worldwide. This article reviews the events leading to the discovery of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the clinicoepidemiological aspects of the disease, and international and national programmes to curb its spread. In Singapore, an AIDS Programme was set up in 1985 to control the spread of HIV infection in the Republic. The programme included health care delivery, education of health care workers and the community, surveillance and counselling of high-risk individuals, as well as screening of blood donors for HIV. As at 30 april 1988, 22 Singaporeans with HIV infection have been detected. Of these, four had AIDS.