Continuum (magazine)

Continuum magazine autumn 2000 cover small

Continuum was a controversial magazine that was published from 1992 until 2001, focusing on AIDS denialism, a movement that denies the scientific consensus that the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the cause of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The magazine was based in the United Kingdom and became a central voice for AIDS denialists, promoting alternative theories about AIDS and its causes, and questioning the efficacy and safety of antiretroviral drugs used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS.

History

Continuum was founded at a time when the HIV/AIDS epidemic was at the forefront of global health concerns. The magazine positioned itself against what it described as the "orthodox" views of the medical and scientific communities regarding HIV/AIDS. It published articles, interviews, and opinion pieces from a range of contributors, including scientists, journalists, and activists who supported the AIDS denialism viewpoint.

Content and Impact

The content of Continuum covered various topics, including critiques of the scientific research on HIV/AIDS, promotion of alternative therapies for treating AIDS, and conspiracy theories about the origins of the virus. The magazine argued that HIV was not the cause of AIDS and claimed that antiretroviral drugs were harmful to patients. These views were widely criticized by the scientific community, which has consistently found overwhelming evidence that HIV causes AIDS and that antiretroviral therapy is an effective treatment.

Despite its controversial stance, Continuum gained a following and contributed to the spread of AIDS denialism, particularly among some groups of people living with HIV/AIDS who were distrustful of the pharmaceutical industry and mainstream medical advice. The magazine's promotion of alternative therapies, some of which were unproven and potentially dangerous, raised ethical and health concerns.

Criticism and Controversy

Continuum and its contributors were subject to significant criticism from scientists, healthcare professionals, and HIV/AIDS activists. Critics argued that the magazine spread misinformation that could endanger lives by encouraging people to reject effective treatments for HIV/AIDS. The scientific consensus is that early and sustained treatment with antiretroviral drugs can manage HIV infection and prevent the progression to AIDS, significantly extending the life expectancy of those living with HIV.

Closure

The magazine ceased publication in 2001, but the reasons for its closure are not well-documented. Some sources suggest that the death of several of its key contributors from AIDS-related illnesses may have contributed to its discontinuation. Despite its closure, the legacy of Continuum persists in the ongoing debates about AIDS denialism and its impact on public health.

Legacy

The legacy of Continuum is a subject of controversy. While it served as a platform for those questioning the scientific understanding of HIV/AIDS, it also exemplified the dangers of spreading misinformation about a deadly epidemic. The magazine's history is a reminder of the importance of basing public health policies and treatments on scientific evidence and consensus.

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