National History of HIV Infection in Gay Men and Intravenous Drug Users

Abstract

Injecting drug users represent the second largest population with AIDS in the United States, accounting for 25% of reported cases nationally and over 50% in many northeast cities. The natural history of HIV infection in injecting drug users is similar to men who have sex with men but also has unique features. The most striking difference appears in the spectrum of HIV clinical manifestations, the result of substantial differences in demographics, life style and access to medical care.

Key Words:

• Drug use
• Design
• Nested case-control