AIDS Crisis in the 1980s

The AIDS Crisis in the 1980s

• The Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic emerged in the early 1980s, causing widespread panic and confusion
• The first reported cases of AIDS were in 1981, primarily among gay men in New York City and California
• By 1983, AIDS had spread to 25 states and claimed over 1,000 lives
• The disease was initially misunderstood, and misinformation led to discrimination against those infected
• The AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) was formed in 1987 to advocate for AIDS research and awareness
• In 1987, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first antiretroviral drug, AZT, to treat HIV

And here are three multiple-choice questions about the AIDS crisis in the 1980s:

• Question 1* What was the primary demographic affected by AIDS in the early 1980s? A) Heterosexual couples B) Gay men C) Healthcare workers D) IV drug users
• Answer*: B) Gay men
• Question 2* What was the name of the organization formed in 1987 to advocate for AIDS research and awareness? A) ACT UP B) HIV Awareness Coalition C) AIDS Research Fund D) Gay Men's Health Crisis
• Answer*: A) ACT UP
• Question 3* What was the name of the first antiretroviral drug approved by the FDA in 1987 to treat HIV? A) AZT B) HIVase C) Retrovir D) HIV fighter
• Answer*: A) AZT

Test your knowledge of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s, a pivotal moment in American history and a major public health crisis.