Falling through the cracks: AIDS and the urban "underclass".
Item
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Title
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Falling through the cracks: AIDS and the urban "underclass".
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Identifier
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AAI9130291
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identifier
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9130291
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Creator
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Ayala, Victor A.
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Contributor
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Adviser: William Kornblum
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Date
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1991
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Sociology, General | Sociology, Ethnic and Racial Studies | Health Sciences, Public Health
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Abstract
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This study addresses the AIDS issues concerning the urban underclass specifically through their interaction with the health care system. A myriad of factors are explored to highlight why this population is at high risk for the disease and conceivably will remain so. Limits on education (AIDS and otherwise), information sharing and dissemination and accessibility to health care and protective measures, have helped to trap this population in its high risk status. Further, cultural upbringing shape lifestyles to such an extent, it acts as a veil through which knowledge and information is received. This inability to receive, understand or be accessible to AIDS prevention information puts not only their own subculture at risk, but also those groups where interactions takes place, such as the urban poor.;The underclass remains vulnerable in the system, not only to contract HIV infection and AIDS, but also to effectively negotiate proper medical care for their illnesses. The stigma of AIDS coupled with the stigma of underclass, as perceived by health care workers, can affect their treatment. The patient's inability to understand the illness gives rise to their inability to participate in their treatment. That is, to have effective discourse on treatment options, alternatives and side-effects. To further complicate the efficacy of treatment, health care facilities are understaffed and health care workers are sometimes untrained in the continuing complexities of AIDS care.;The study attempts, finally, to correlate the underclass population to society as a whole and underscores their right to proper and adequate medical treatment, regardless of lifestyles, stigmas and the perception of the health care worker. It reminds us of our own mortality and our right to die with dignity.;What exists in the following pages is a portal through which a journey will begin, one from which the reader can return, however not without knowing that he shares his humanity with these individuals. The desire for the quality of life, health and even death is universal.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
