AIDS does not discriminate.

Despite the National Research Council's recent study that said AIDS has not affected American society as a whole, people of all walks of life have been infected.

For example, did the study exclude tennis star Arthur Ashe, who died recently from AIDS?

Did it consider basketball star Magic Johnson, who has been infected with HIV?

What about Freddie Mercury, lead singer of the rock group Queen, who died from AIDS?

These are not people with "little economic, political and social power" -- those whom the study said AIDS affects the most.

Though the data compiled in the study may be accurate, the conclusion that AIDS will have little impact on America on the whole is dangerous and misleading.

The study also stated that because AIDS is concentrated among drug users, gay people and the poor and under-educated, it will "disappear" because ". . .those who continue to be affected by it are socially invisible, beyond sight and attention of the majority population."

But this statement conflicts with reality. Although many of the people who have been infected with HIV are of the listed social groups, everyone is affected by the disease's existence.

The council that conducted the study is part of the National Academy of Sciences, a private organization chartered by Congress to provide scientific advice to the federal government.

Since a cure has yet to be found, it is essential to continue funding AIDS research; this type of misguided study could hinder federal support.

The emergence of AIDS has changed the way people are educated about sex and the way they conduct their personal lives. This study sends the wrong message to the general public, hinting that they no longer have to worry about AIDS and its effects. It only reinforces the belief of many in society that they are invincible.

No one should discontinue practicing safe sex simply because of the results of this study. People should continue to be aware and educate themselves about the disease.

Anyone can become infected through sexual intercourse, intravenous drug use or blood transfusions regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic level or ethnicity.

AIDS does not discriminate.