Alcohol and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) from infection with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) are each separately agents that cause suppression of immune function. Therefore regular use of alcohol by people infected with HIV shouldbe more suppressive than either alone. Some of the most interesting questions about infection with HIV including the following: Why does progression to AIDS after HIV infection vary in length of time from under 1 year to 15 years of more? Does inhibition of mental functions by heavy alcohol use increase risky sexual behaviors and thus the chance of becoming infected with HIV? Does alcohol use or abuse affect the production of the virus or the invasion of cells by the virus?

Conventional wisdom based on long experience is that alcohol's relaxation of sexual inhibition will increase risky sexual behaviors in those who use alcohol even in moderation (2-3 drinks a day). Risky...