Carlos E. A. Coimbra

Black piedra among the Zoró Indians from Amazônia (Brazil).

A total of 130 Zoró Indians from the Brazilian Amazon were observed as part of an epidemiological survey. Black piedra was found in 74 (56.9%) individuals. Infection rates between the sexes were not significantly different. The age group least infected comprised the children, 0–10 years of age. The authors comment on the epidemiology of the infection among the Zoró.

Sexual behavior and AIDS in sociocultural perspective.

AIDS, its cause, effect, and possible cure, has become a complex sociopsychological issue with ramifications extending far beyond the purely medical sphere. Spreading rapidly, with a higher incidence rate recorded among young people, the disease transcended the biomedical sphere, presenting sociocultural and psychological ramifications that go beyond its physical impact. With a higher incidence rate among male homosexuals, the epidemic raises morally sensitive questions which further confuse an already clouded picture. Current knowledge on the sexual transmission of AIDS and the role of male homosexuality demonstrates the need for more serious research into the various social and cultural aspects of homosexuality itself. To this end, medical anthropology may provide important information to those dealing with educational and preventive programs for the general population, as well as those in high risk groups for acquiring the disease.