Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Research (AIDS)

This grant was awarded to fund clinical and laboratory research on therapeutic regimens which show promise of ameliorating the effects of HIV infection. Midway through the five year grant, an organizational structure is in place to conduct both basic and applied research of HIV. In late 1980 a few cases of a devastating disease that attacked the bodys immune system and its ability to fight disease were identified in the United States. This disease was eventually diagnosed and named acquired immune deficiency syndrome AIDS. By 1982, the Centers for Disease Control CDC were gathering epidemiologic data and case definitions. Attention still needed to be focused on other factors of HIV infection affecting the military.