The current approach to AIDS policies and programs which stress terminal illness can increase the vulnerability of AIDS patients. The adverse affects of HIV on the health of men and women suggests there needs to be a reassessment of the traditions of male sexuality and concepts of maleness. Legislation and a resocialization process may be needed to initiate a new orientation in male-female relationships. The health of family members and communities may be endangered by the stresses of caregiving. Policies need to be developed to deal with the weakening of communities as well as selected categories of affected individuals. The author questions whether the current health care system can adequately respond to the health requirements placed on it and argues that policy measures to stop AIDS must stem from a collective, balanced social and biomedical effort. 102 references (Author abstract modified)