AIDS: Ending the Epidemic

Another outstanding program in the Discovery Channel's Assignment Discovery series, the first volume in the two-tape AIDS: Ending the Epidemic set briefly looks at the etiology of AIDS, from initial HIV infection (through unprotected sex, unclean drug needles, or--much more rarely today--tainted blood or blood products) to the immune-crippling, full-fledged disease. Viewers are introduced to HIV-positive people who are coping with the condition, as well as doctors who not only explain new treatments that improve the quality of life for AIDS patients, but also discuss why women and minorities are among the fastest growing population groups among the newly infected. Volume two explores the progress that researchers have made in understanding the scientific mechanics of the disease, and examines the challenges of developing an AIDS vaccine. Combining excellent computer graphics with informative interviews of doctors, patients, and researchers, this contemporary report on AIDS is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (L. Stevens)