"This report analyzes the complex mechanics of the epidemic, its seriousness, and the threat it poses in the future. It draws upon a range of data to synthesize an explanation of the current crisis and the national response that has been launched. It assesses the institutional arrangements, political commitment, enabling legal environment, government program, resource availability, and donor and civil society engagement." "The study provides projections of possible whys in which the epidemic might develop without interventions and the potential implications on population demography, outlining the possible development of the epidemic by 2015. If also examines the impact of the epidemic on households and orphans as well as the economic impact on agriculture, transport, labor, health care, social security, and the deepening of poverty. The paper outlines the main barriers to the development of a comprehensive multi-sectoral national action plan and defines options for World Bank involvement." --Résumé de l'éditeur.

Europe's "Black Death" contributed to the rise of nation states, mercantile economies, and even the Reformation. Will the AIDS epidemic have similar dramatic effects on the social and political landscape of the twenty-first century? This readable volume looks at the impact of AIDS since its emergence and suggests its effects in the next decade, when a million or more Americans will likely die of the disease. The Social Impact of AIDS in the United States addresses some of the most sensitive and controversial issues in the public debate over AIDS. This landmark book explores how AIDS has affected fundamental policies and practices in our major institutions, examining: How America's major religious organizations have dealt with sometimes conflicting values: the imperative of care for the sick versus traditional views of homosexuality and drug use. Hotly debated public health measures, such as HIV antibody testing and screening, tracing of sexual contacts, and quarantine. The potential risk of HIV infection to and from health care workers. How AIDS activists have brought about major change in the way new drugs are brought to the marketplace. The impact of AIDS on community-based organizations, from volunteers caring for individuals to the highly political ACT-UP organization. Coping with HIV infection in prisons. Two case studies shed light on HIV and the family relationship. One reports on some efforts to gain legal recognition for nonmarital relationships, and the other examines foster care programs for newborns with the HIV virus. A case study of New York City details how selected institutions interact to give what may be a picture of AIDS in the future. This clear and comprehensive presentation will be of interest to anyone concerned about AIDS and its impact on the country: health professionals, sociologists, psychologists, advocates for at-risk populations, and interested individuals.