Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This disease is the sixth main reason for the death of people who are between the ages of 25 – 44 years old. According to the World Health organization statistics, more than 25 million people have lost their lives to this pandemic since its inception. In the United States alone, it is the major cause of death among African Americans. This race had died from this illness more than any other race or disease.

AIDS is a condition which causes a progressive breakdown of the immune system against HIV and other fatal infections. The virus is transmitted through sex, blood transfusion or needle sharing. A pregnant mother can also transmit the virus to her fetus through blood sharing. It is not transmitted through casual contacts like mosquito bites, hugging or touching things that were previously touched by an AIDS victim.