The emergence of HIV and AIDS in the early 80’s certainly changed the sexual habits and behaviours of the Western World. Previous to that, untreated syphilis did have deadly consequences but treatment was available and possible, and even inexpensive. Perhaps the most common of all sexual transmitted diseases was genital warts. In fact, finding the cause of genital warts were hardly a priority as in more people were ashamed to find out who gave those warts to them. With HIV and AIDS, everything changed. At first, it was unfairly called a “gay “disease since most of those who contracted AIDS in the early 80’s were from the gay community.

Gradually, as more research was placed into finding a cure for HIV and AIDS, it has become a disease that crosses all ages, sexual orientations, and races. When Magic Johnson told the press he was HIV-positive in the late 80’s, the message that HIV can hit anyone, regardless of age, race, and color hit home. Even the great sports icon, Arthur Ashe, was not spared. He was infected with AIDS because of a tainted blood transfusion. These days, however, getting diagnosed as HIV positive is not a death sentence. Magic Johnson is still very much alive and lives a good life, still with his wife Cookie, and very much active with his businesses. But it would even be better when we find a cure for AIDS. What are the other killers of today that can be avoided?

- Heart Disease- Heart disease can be avoided by a balanced life. Eating well, exercise and having a less stressful life are major factors that can help avoid heart disease. Smoking is a no-no. Even with some people that have a history in their family of heart disease, through proper and balance living, they are able to live longer.

- Accidents cause by Driving Under the Influence. The statistics have shown that DUI related accidents in San Diego County have decreased because of the sanctions imposed by those caught DUI. Perhaps by having stiffer penalties such as having a permanent conviction record, huge fines, and even jail time, there are less people drinking and driving. The media campaign from years back have also been effective in lowering the incidents of people driving while under the influence.

- Drug overdose. Whether it be an addiction to prescription medicines, or hard core drugs, this is a man made situation that has gone global. The production of illegal drugs are now done in such quantities that they are now very inexpensive to purchase and available all around the world. Ridding this menace may almost be impossible, but we can hope that with the participation of governments, international police associations, and parents, this can one day be a thing of the past.