Letter from the Editor

Dear Colleagues,

As this edition of HEPP News went to press, we were encouraged by the news that the United Nations General Assembly has adopted a "Declaration of Commitment on HIV/AIDS." Although significant concessions were made in the drafting of this document, this does mark the first time that the General Assembly has convened solely to confront an infectious disease. This declaration sets (non-binding) time frames within which member nations are to expand access to HIV testing, prevention tools such as male and female condoms, disposable syringes, prenatal care, and perinatal measures to decrease vertical transmission of HIV. In addition, the declaration calls for the development of improved health care delivery systems, access to reduced cost medications, measures to promote gender equality and to protect those living with HIV/AIDS, and funding for low and middle income countries to accomplish these goals.

Although we are now twenty years into the HIV epidemic, it is hoped that the increased spotlight on this issue brought about by the United Nations declaration will mark a turning point in the fight against AIDS and help to control the explosive growth of HIV worldwide.

In this issue, HEPP News senior advisor David Paar focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Hepatitis B. By vaccinating our patients and colleagues, we in correctional health have the opportunity to prevent cancer, cirrhosis, and further transmission of this potentially devastating virus. Dr. Paar also provides an update on the Texas Department of Corrections' four years of experience with telemedicine. This month's HEPPigram provides an algorithm for the management of abnormal liver function tests, while Dr. Nick Capozzoli draws upon his experience as a correctional neurologist to review peripheral neuropathy.

After reviewing this issue, readers should know more about the management of Hepatitis B, be able to discuss the use of telemedicine in the delivery of HIV care within corrections, and have a better understanding of the diagnosis and management of peripheral neuropathy.

This month, we welcome Rebecca Nerenberg as the new managing editor for HEPP News. As always, we encourage your suggestions for future HEPP News topics!

Sincerely,

Joseph Bick

Back to the HEPP News June/July 2001 contents page.