Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1991. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
San Francisco Chronicle (SF) - WEDNESDAY December 11, 1991
In a rare appearance before the National Commission on AIDS, Bush repeatedly asked how he could be of more help in combatting the disease and said that he was eager "to show a sense of caring."
The president's expressed concern is well- founded. An estimated 1 million to 1.5 million Americans have been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus that causes AIDS and nearly 130,000 have died. The predictions for the next decade are equally grim.
FOR STARTERS, a concerned and caring presidency could follow recommendations of its own commission on AIDS and develop a national plan to identify priorities and resources needed to prevent HIV transmission and to treat AIDS.
More research is needed on the sexual behavior of teenagers in order to formulate plans to prevent unsafe sexual conduct. Testing, counseling and research facilities must be established for the treatment of intravenous drug users. Special education is required to fight the prejudice that too often is unjustly demonstrated against AIDS victims.
If the president's interest in curbing the incidence of AIDS constitutes a genuine commitment, and is not just an attempt to make political hay out of a vital domestic issue, the prestige of the White House can make an important impact on the national fight against an overwhelming epidemic.
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