The Colectivo de Concientizacion Gay, a homosexual and lesbian organization in Puerto Rico, developed a brief analysis of what has happened since symptoms associated with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) were first reported by the Centers for Disease Control in 1981; the analysis also included implications for the gay community. Since homosexuals were the first AIDS victims, the disease was linked to this way of life. The homosexualization of the disease had a negative influence on the handling of research, the assignment of funds, the treatment of patients, and the content of public information. AIDS, however, is a concern of general public health and is not exclusive to homosexuals. Statistics of the Latin American Center of Sexually Transmitted Diseases indicate that in Puerto Rico the major percentage of AIDS patients is not composed of homosexuals. Nonetheless, a homosexual stigma seems to predominate in communities. Homosexuals must maintain objectivity in dealing with AIDS. They must assume responsibility for taking precautions to avoid the contamination and transmission of the disease. For some this will mean low risk sexual behaviors, for others the alternative of monogamy. Homosexuals must beware of fostering social prejudice. It is difficult to determine where genuine concern ends and homophobia begins. (NB)