AIDS CASES SHOULDN'T BECOME NUMBERS GAME

Perhaps one of the most puzzling aspects of the AIDS virus is the numbers. Sometimes the statistics appear as if this disease has reached epidemic proportions. Other times, the numbers show that the rise has slowed. A change in the AIDS definition on Jan. 1, 1993, adds even more confusion to this numbers game.

This new definition of the disease will result in a startling increase in the number of AIDS cases this year. Under the new guidelines, 90,000 Americans are expected to be diagnosed as having AIDS in 1993, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That compares to an average 50,000 a year under the previous standard.

In Missouri, the numbers of AIDS victims will rise by about 15 percent, or about 470 people.

When we compare the rise in AIDS cases in 1993 to years past, we must keep this new definition and its effect in mind. That way, the statistics can be kept in perspective.

The new definition now covers AIDS symptoms more characteristic of women and intravenous drug users. This change addresses the growing number of women who have contracted the disease through heterosexual relations. Under the old guidelines, those with HIV were diagnosed with having AIDS when they develop indicator diseases most common to men.

Nationwide, AIDS service providers are bracing for an increased demand for treatment and social services. Some fear this change could overtax the system. Hopefully, the system will be able to bear the influx of new patients. If not, the federal government that changed the guideline will have to commit more resources.

Concern over the AIDS "numbers game" should not detract from the seriousness of this disease. Since 1981, about 242,000 Americans have been diagnosed with AIDS, and 160,000 have died. About 1 million Americans are infected with HIV. The Missouri Department of Health reports over 3,000 cases of AIDS in the state since 1982. Additionally, 1,024 Missourians tested positive for HIV in 1991.

This new definition should draw attention to the importance of testing and treatment for AIDS patients. But hefty statistical increases in 1993 should not be used to scare people into thinking the spread of AIDS has suddenly spun out of control. America needs to deal with AIDS rationally, not lost in a numbers maze.