COMBATING AIDS CALLS FOR PERSONAL DISCIPLINE

Today has been proclaimed in some quarters as World AIDS Day, and the modifier of that proclamation may be taken in a couple of ways. Some view the disease as so universal that it lacks any specific impact; in their minds, it happens elsewhere and not here. The other take is that AIDS has truly become a worldwide disease and global concern. The latter is closer to the mark. As we observe this day, it should likewise be noted that despite our rural bearings, AIDS has found this neck of the woods, and our awareness of its presence is vital.

Statistics compiled by the Missouri Department of Health indicate that AIDS, barely heard of a decade ago, exists in our midst. Cumulative reported AIDS cases in Cape Girardeau County number 17, while another 20 are reported with HIV, the virus that leads to the disease. In neighboring Scott County, nine are reported with AIDS and 10 have HIV. And these are the reported cases; persons can have the virus and not know it. In Missouri, there have been nearly 3,100 AIDS cases reported, and more than 1,800 AIDS deaths.

Some perspective on these numbers is important. First, of the 1,818 AIDS deaths in Missouri, fewer than 500 have been reported outside the state's three biggest cities. Second, AIDS ranks far down on the list of behavior-based deaths, both in Missouri and elsewhere. In the category of risky deportment, the fatality rolls would be significantly trimmed if Americans would stop drinking and driving; deaths from this pale the AIDS numbers. Fifty million Americans smoke tobacco, an activity that lends itself to far more deaths than the sexually transmitted disease.

However, the purpose of World AIDS Day is to promote education and understanding about the disease. Since many in this area might believe AIDS resides elsewhere, the educational effort is well-placed here. The fact is that promiscuity and other sexual risks, as well as intravenous drug use, can expose Southeast Missourians to HIV. The danger is real and present, if not prevalent.

While it is senseless to be consumed by the thought of getting AIDS, it is dense to dismiss the threat posed by risky behavior. Unfortunately, many will use World AIDS Day to promote political and other agendas; they will miss the point. The point is that AIDS can be combated more than most diseases ... it just requires some knowledge and personal discipline to do the fighting.