Bill Clinton

“ We must also develop and refine treatments that increase the survival time and quality of life of HIV-infected infants, children, and adolescents.
As a people, we must see to it that those among us living with HIV and AIDS are allowed to enjoy productive lives for as long as possible. We must put aside our differences and recognize the necessity of working together to defeat our common enemy-HIV. I challenge all Americans to join the fight. ”

“ Ten thousand children in the United States today are living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) . Ten million children worldwide will become infected with HIV before the millennium. Over 5,000 cases of pediatric AIDS and 1,500 cases of AIDS in adolescents ages 13 through 19 have been reported in this country alone. The tragedy is magnified for our youth, as the epidemic reaches far beyond those actually infected-it will leave up to 125,000 children and teenagers orphaned in this country by the end of this decade. ”

“ One in five of all reported AIDS cases is diagnosed in the 20-29 year old age group, meaning that these people were adolescents when they became infected.
The single most important step taken by my Administration in the fight against HIV and AIDS is the introduction to the Congress of the Health Security Act of 1993. All people living with HIV and AIDS, especially our children, must often fight not only the disease, but also a health care system likely to deny them coverage in their moment of greatest need. ”

“ The effects of infection by HIV are different in children than in adults. Infected infants get sicker faster, their immune systems may deteriorate more rapidly, and treatments that are helpful to adults may not be helpful for children. ”

“ Many communities across the country have already realized the grave dangers posed to our society by HIV and have responded by reaching out to battle the disease. More people must become involved now, or many more lives will be needlessly lost. ”

“ This Administration, through the Office of National AIDS Policy and its Cabinet agencies, has joined with community-based AIDS organizations, families, businesses, professional associations, churches, schools, and universities to fight HIV and AIDS. Early intervention and educational resources must be made available, especially to youth and other high-risk groups. ”