Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2008. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
AIDS Education Global Information System - December 4, 2008
Dear Friends:
Thousands of websites contain HIV/AIDS information, new studies are published everyday, ARV treatment is available for many, and a vast amount of prevention information exists. Still, the pandemic forges on. At this point, how do we sensitize and educate people in a way that depicts the inconvenient reality HIV/AIDS presents? The answer still lies with information.
Back in 1986, only a very small amount of HIV/AIDS information was in existence. Utilizing the technology of the day, three electronic bulletin board systems (BBS) sprang up in the U.S. to provide what little AIDS information was available at the time - AIDS Info BBS, Seattle AIDS Info BBS, and AEGiS. In Europe, the HIVNet BBS was created to address the need for information.
As the pandemic grew, so did its needs. AEGiS has been responding to the needs presented by the inconvenient reality of HIV/AIDS ever since. Much information is available about the virus today, yet it has not transformed into personal knowledge. Personal knowledge about HIV that should include awareness, compassion, and science-based facts. The evidence? At this moment 1 out of 5 people in the U.S. do not know that they have the virus. The AEGiS database is a learning tool that provides an opportunity for people to become sensitized and aware of this unique disease.
AEGiS is an equal opportunity resource that is free of charge for anyone who'd like to educate themselves about HIV and AIDS, personally, or professionally. The AEGiS database is free for the taking, but not without a cost.
When AEGiS receives financial support it reaffirms that our service is valued and is being used as intended. Unfortunately, we are currently experiencing more than a $100,000 short-fall in our 2009 budget. Support received from those that value our work and want it to continue will determine how long we are able to stay in existence. With your support AEGiS can, and will persevere. Please donate today.
As always, we appreciate your support. Thank you!
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Copyright © 2008 - Reproduced courtesy of copyright owner - listed on source line.
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, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2008. 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, 2008. 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. .