years in operation today.

During that time the Helpline, which began on May 17, 1993 has grown significantly with a volunteer staff of 38.

Two hundred and twenty three people have used the service since its inception.

Forty seven of those callers were between 30-39 years of age.

An increased number of men are now using the facility -- 55 during the first year and 62 during the second year compared to 57 and 49 for women -- and there are also an increased number of HIV-positive callers and crisis calls.

Crisis calls are those from persons who may have had unprotected sex and wants information on HIV testing.

"We are encouraged by the number of people who have called the AIDS Helpline,'' Mr. Paul Dean, AVSF director said in a press release yesterday.

"...We recognise the need for accurate and unbiased information being made available to the people of Bermuda. However we recognise that a great number of people are putting themselves at risk of contracting HIV infection on a daily basis.'' The most frequently asked question is about the safety of oral sex, although callers also want to know about the best type of condoms to buy and where people can get tested for HIV infection.

The AIDS Helpline was established as a referral service but an over-the -counter counselling service has also been set up in the past year. This service is aimed at people who are being affected by HIV infection and AIDS.

In November, 1994 AVSF launched a support group for people living with AIDS and plans to start a second support group for the partners and loved ones of people living with AIDS.

"The most important task for us is to get the message out to the public that it's okay to call the AIDS Helpline,'' said AVSF vice president Mr. Marc Thomas. "All calls are strictly confidential and non-judgmental. And there is no question that's too basic to be asked. It is vital that people have the correct information about HIV infection and AIDS. It could save a life.'' 44 cases of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome were confirmed in Bermuda in 1994, an increase of over one third over 1993's 33 confirmed cases.

By the end of 1994, 291 people had died of AIDS in Bermuda since 1982 making it the number one killer of people in their prime working years.