A.I.D.S.-social Life Probe ‘unreliable’ (Press, 21 August 1987)

In a statement on 21 August 1987, Mr Warren Lindberg, the director of the Aids Foundation, addressed the practices of life insurance companies regarding their assessment of risk for Aids. He challenged the reliance on clients' social lives and sexual orientation as indicators of their likelihood of contracting Aids, advocating instead for a focus on individuals' histories of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Lindberg pointed out that the only dependable indication of risk is a recent history of these diseases, as it suggests potential exposure through unprotected sexual relations. He referenced a report from Australia’s National Advisory Committee on Aids, which supports the notion that a person's sexual activity should inform life insurance risk rather than their sexual orientation. According to Lindberg, it is impractical to directly inquire about an applicant's sexual activity due to the potential for dishonesty. Lindberg further argued against stereotypes, noting that not all individuals, such as a single man over 30 who has undergone an Aids antibody test, should be presumed to be at risk or promiscuous. He emphasised the importance of discretion in assessments to avoid unjust assumptions about people's sexual behaviour. Only a small percentage, specifically 2 per cent, of those tested for Aids antibodies at Auckland’s Aids clinic had positive results, which Lindberg highlighted as a positive sign encouraging people to understand and evaluate their risks without fear of insurance discrimination. He expressed concern that fear of discrimination could deter individuals from getting tested for Aids, ultimately jeopardising health awareness and safety. Lindberg mentioned that the Aids Foundation had not formally addressed life insurance discrimination issues and noted no complaints regarding this matter, though he acknowledged that some insurers were beginning to implement risk identification questions. Lindberg was particularly cautious about the application of Aids antibody tests as health indicators, clarifying that they do not definitively denote a life-threatening disease. He cited that these tests indicate only a 10 to 30 per cent probability of having Aids, raising concerns about standard risk assessments in health-related contexts. The Aids Foundation seeks to encourage insurance companies to adopt policies that support individuals who have mitigated their risk of contracting Aids, such as those in stable relationships. Lindberg’s comments reflect a commitment to ensure fair treatment in life insurance while also emphasising the importance of testing and awareness in managing health risks associated with Aids.

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