Lethal Syndrome Places Homosexual Men At Risk (Press, 20 May 1982)

A new and alarming syndrome has emerged in the United States, affecting more than 300 previously healthy individuals, primarily young homosexual males. The syndrome is characterised by a rare cancer known as Kaposi's sarcoma, typically associated with the elderly, and various opportunistic infections, particularly a type of pneumonia usually experienced by those with suppressed immune systems. Most cases have been reported within the last 15 months, with the incidence rate currently at roughly one new case each day reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The death rate is notably high, already reaching 40 per cent, and is anticipated to rise further. Patients exhibit a significant collapse of their immune systems, specifically a deficiency in key immunological cells known as T-helper cells. This new health crisis has raised urgent questions regarding its causes, particularly its sudden onset and its specific impact on younger homosexual men. Several theories have been proposed for the origin of this syndrome, with the first being the introduction of a new infectious agent that could be transmitted sexually among men. However, no concrete evidence for such an agent has been identified to date. Another consideration is whether lifestyle factors, including new patterns of drug use, may be contributing to the syndrome. Initial observations indicated that drug abuse and prior infections with known viruses could be common factors among the afflicted. It was recognised that homosexuals typically have a higher incidence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, which is known to have immunosuppressive effects and might play a role in Kaposi’s sarcoma development. Further investigation has focused on a particular subset of drugs, specifically nitrites, which are sometimes used by the homosexual community to enhance sexual experience. While these nitrites have been in use since the 1960s and are widely consumed, most users remain healthy, casting doubt on their sole culpability in the current health crisis. Among other hypotheses, the use of over-the-counter cortisone creams has been considered due to their potential immunosuppressive properties. However, there is insufficient usage data to support the notion that these creams could be responsible for the severe immune degradation observed in patients. The CDC is conducting tests on laboratory animals to explore potential links to these substances, with results expected in about two months. Meanwhile, experts are struggling with the complexity of identifying specific drugs involved, given that many substance users mix various drugs, making it challenging to pinpoint a causal factor. As of now, the medical community's efforts have focused on symptom management for affected patients, with little success. The immediate hope is that researchers will soon uncover the underlying cause of this devastating syndrome that has emerged so unexpectedly.

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