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To compensate for an unhealthy food environment, foods high in calories, fat, or sugar could be subjected to special taxes, with costs of healthful foods subsidized. This paper reviews state tax laws, identifying 19 states and cities that levy such taxes. These taxes raise about $1 billion annually. The paper proposes using such revenues to fund health promotion programs. (SM)

The Tuskegee study of untreated syphilis in black males caused distrust by blacks of the public health system that has implications for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) studies. AIDS prevention among blacks may require openness about the Tuskegee study to allay fears of repetition. (SLD)

Demographic impacts of meeting the National Health Objectives for 2000 were studied using life-table methods. Meeting the targets would increase life expectancy at birth by 1.5-2.1 years to 76.6-77.2 years. Modifying the coronary heart disease and unintentional injury targets to be more optimistic would further increase life expectancy. (SLD)

Few U.S. youths particularly from minority groups, pursue careers in science or environmental health. This description of efforts to boost the number of black scientists considers why such initiatives may not work. Economic concerns and the low prestige of many college science programs contribute to minority disinterest in science. (SLD)

Criticizes the methodology of a questionnaire-based study that found a discrepancy between the beliefs of sexually active adolescents about condoms and their use of condoms. Discusses six methodological problems in the study to demonstrate how the overly simplified treatment of complex behavior can lead to invalid conclusions. (FMW)

Recent studies indicate that the production of socioeconomic differences in health status by socially disadvantaged is equivalent in the United States and Britain, even though the traditional emphasis in Britain has been on social class and in the United States has been on educational status and race. (SLD)

Discusses the mounting evidence for the neurological damage of childhood lead poisoning. Argues that ignoring lead poisoning is more expensive than preventing it. Reviews a recent plan to eradicate lead poisoning and the sociological factors that may impede its implementation. (CJS)

Interviews with a random sample of 1,598 persons aged 65 years and older in 1975 with followups in 1984 provide information about the distribution between community and institutional care of urban elderly in Cleveland (Ohio). Support factors that enable persons to remain in the community are identified. (SLD)

Studying the prevalence of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) among American Indians and Alaskan Native populations reveals a low 1990 case rate but a rapid increase in diagnosed cases, at a rate higher than any other racial/ethnic group. Culturally sensitive prevention programs are required. (SLD)

Although Asian Americans are the fastest growing ethnic minority group in the United States, relatively little is known about the health risks and morbidity of different Asian-American groups. A national survey (National Health Interview Survey) is needed to clarify the health risks of major Asian-American subgroups. (SLD)

Discusses the ethical aspects of screening and testing for clinical detection of individuals infected with asymptomatic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Careful consideration must be given to individuals' rights, respect for their privacy, and society's obligations to provide needed clinical and social services in translating cautious medical optimism into ethically justified policies. (AF)

Examines how 1980 Census data can be used in: (1) estimating Hispanic Americans' health care needs; (2) identifying Hispanic subgroups with special health care problems; and (3) designing other local social surveys of Hispanics. Discusses problems in using census data for Hispanic health services research, and explores strategies for dealing with such problems. (Author/MJL)

Provides useful information for health care professionals working with Southeast Asian refugees. Discusses the refugees' health care expectations and behavior patterns; examines conflicts between Western medicine and Southeast Asian beliefs and practices; and suggests that practitioners can increase communication with the Southeast Asians by considering the latter's viewpoints. (Author/MJL)

Replies to comments by David Rush concerning the effectiveness of a WIC program in improving pregnancy outcomes among Massachusetts women. (GC)

Smoking among students in a suburban high school appears to be part of a complex, symbolic process that is associated with a system of social differentiation between working class and middle class students. To be effective, anti-smoking programs should consider the social dynamics of smoking. (Author/MJL)

From a statistical methodological standpoint, criticizes research by Hicks, Langham, and Takenaka, which found significant differences in behavioral and intelligence measures between children with different time periods of participation in the National Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. (GC)

The double-bind message given women about preventing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection suggests that, if a partner will not use a condom, the woman should use a spermicide. The debate about the protection offered by spermicides is reviewed, and research on prevention effectiveness is urged. (SLD)

Biological questions about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are minor compared with political and ethical problems related to the AIDS epidemic in the United States. Lack of public confidence in the work of public health officials and the controversy surrounding New York City's syringe exchange program are two examples. (SLD)

Outlines public policy goals regarding substance abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, unintended pregnancies, and violence. Concludes that the nation will continue to be high-risk until reforms are implemented that will equalize access to the opportunity structure. (DM)

Presents a broad overview of recent trends, programs, and ideas aimed at solving the problem of unintended adolescent pregnancy. Asserts that the general problem of teenage parenthood results from a lack of options available to poor youngsters who, often, are members of minority groups. (KH)

Comments on the debate between Rush and Kotelchuck and colleagues, regarding the effects of WIC participation on pregnancy outcomes. Points out the dilemma posed by the need to justify maternal and child health programs by pointing to quantifiable gains, rather than by the advocacy of such programs as a social responsibility. (GC)

Comments on an article by Kotelchuck and colleagues concerning the benefits of WIC participation on pregnancy outcomes. Raises methodological considerations, especially the effects of duration of WIC participation and benefits, and the problem of matching study subjects with controls. (GC)

Prevention and control of diarrhea in day care settings depends on: maintenance of hygienic standards; disease surveillance; adhering to a policy for exclusion of children with diarrhea; and education of staff. When diarrhea afflicts several children, isolating together can stop the spread of disease without interrupting normal operation. (KH)

For more than 35 years, research has increasingly linked our nation's diet to heart disease and cancer--the nation's top two killer diseases. Yet there is no well-organized, vigorous effort to improve American eating habits. A National Nutrition Coalition should be established to educate the public. (BJV)

Reviews a model by Joel Kleinman (proposed in this issue) for comparing State infant mortality rates to long-term trends. Asserts that even States with non-significant test results may have problems needing attention. Argues that the model may not be practically applied by State health officials. (KH)

The responsibility for community health should be shared and coordinated among schools, parents, and health agencies. Children's knowledge and skills should be developed so that they too can promote personal good health. Issues and strategies are discussed. (BJV)