Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2000. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Associated Press - Monday, December 4, 2000
Justin Bachman, Associated Press
The survey, released Thursday, was conducted by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"It's scary that so many people are still so ignorant of what causes HIV-AIDS," said Marty Algaze, a spokesman for the Gay Men's Health Crisis.
"Almost 20 years into this epidemic, it's disturbing that people think you could still get it from casual contact."
About 40% of the more than 5,600 participants in the nationwide survey said it was very likely, somewhat likely or somewhat unlikely that HIV could be transmitted by sharing a glass.
Researchers included the "somewhat unlikely" response in the 40% because that choice includes the possibility of transmission. "Very unlikely" and "impossible" were the other choices.
Forty-one percent said transmission is possible by being coughed or sneezed on by someone with the virus.
Nearly 19% of those surveyed said they agreed with the statement, "People who got AIDS through sex or drug use have gotten what they deserve."
The survey found that those with more knowledge about how the virus is spread were less inclined to agree with the statement.
The AIDS virus is most commonly spread through blood or semen, usually involving unprotected sex or sharing a needle with an infected person. Between 800,000 and 900,000 Americans have been infected with HIV.
Dr. Melanie Thompson, founder of the AIDS Research Consortium of Atlanta, said the survey underscores that many people still consider AIDS a "gay disease" and "didn't bother to educate themselves about the facts."
The survey was conducted in August and September through Internet access provided to participants' TV sets.
The CDC warned that the survey did not include people without telephones or living in institutions, the homeless or military personnel.
001204
AP001215
Copyright © 2000 - Associated Press. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the AP Permissions Desk.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2000. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2000. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .