The history, symptoms, prevention, and current issues surrounding HIV and AIDS are discussed in this title, along with a focus on special populations struggling with the disease. Once thought to be a disease of homosexuals and drug abusers, AIDS has impacted people across cultures, genders, and sexual orientations. Despite activism, new research, and treatments, many people are still dying from this disease. This volume traces the history of the disease, and discusses prevention, along with current research and treatment. It examines issues such as care-giving, health care settings, human rights, pregnancy, and insurance. With sections devoted to the needs and struggles of special populations, this volume is an invaluable resource for students and general readers. Special populations that are discussed in the volume include: drug and alcohol abusers, the gay and lesbian community, minority communities, pediatric patients, prisoners, senior citizens, and women.