NCJ Number
117838
Date Published
1987
Length
117 pages
Annotation
Testimony before the California Senate Committee on Health and Human Services pertains to the extent of AIDS among minorities in California, particularly blacks and Hispanics; the risk of AIDS for these groups; and service and prevention needs.
Abstract
Testimony is presented by State and county health officials and representatives of hospitals and physicians, community organizations assisting minority populations, private industries, and individuals. Witnesses agree that minorities, notably blacks and Hispanics, are a high-risk group for AIDS because of their disproportionate involvement in intravenous (IV) drug use, a primary means for transmitting the AIDS virus. The sexual partners of IV drug users are in turn at high risk of getting AIDS, along with their children. A representative of the State Department of Health Services reports that State and national AIDS statistics indicate that California is in the early phase of the epidemic as it affects minorities. Prevention is thus recommended as a primary focus. Current prevention services provided and funded by the State Department of Health are described. Representatives of various local government agencies and private organizations report on their activities in stemming the spread of AIDS among minorities. Most note the need for State resources and programs that target prevention and treatment services for minorities.