Epidemiología de la infección por el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en Colombia

Abstract

The goals of the epidemiological method such as description, explanation of etiology, prediction and control of different health events should be taken into account in order to discuss the epidemiology of AIDS in Colombia. This paper will discuss the descriptive epidemiology of AIDS by person, place and time as it has been published by the Ministry of Health. Some investigations whose results have been published about AIDS epidemic in Colombia are described and their methods briefly described. Specific factors are pointed out. There are not predictions about the epidemic and the control measures and interventions have not been based on our own epidemiologic studies. Some aspects related to the frame under which AIDS should be seen and how the infection should be addressed by public health authorities in Colombia, are also discussed. Finally, some considerations on the epidemiological studies that are needed for planning, decision making and especially for promotion of health and prevention of infection in this country are proposed. © 1996 Corporación Editora Médica del Valle.