National Institutes of Health AIDS research priorities and funding

The coexistence of other endemic diseases widely prevalent in developing countries, such as respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, complicates treatment and poses additional problems for medical personnel caring for HIV-infected individuals. Of particular note is the parallel epidemic of tuberculosis in the developing world. Attitudes, beliefs, and taboos surrounding sex, the status of women and children, and the source and etiology of HIV can complicate attempts to control transmission and provide appropriate prevention and treatment.