Final answer:
The narrative around AIDS in the United States changed with the emergence of cases from heterosexual transmission, mother-to-child transmission, and intravenous drug use, highlighting that it was not a disease exclusive to the homosexual population. Hence, options b, and c are correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The narrative around AIDS in the United States was significantly altered when cases beyond the homosexual population began to emerge. Initially, AIDS was stigmatized as a disease associated with homosexuality, sexual promiscuity, and intravenous drug use. However, it became clear that AIDS could be contracted through heterosexual contact, blood transfusions, and vertically from mother to child. The identification of AIDS as a disease not exclusive to the gay community played a significant part in changing the national conversation and reducing the stigma surrounding the disease.
Several high-profile cases also helped change the public perception of AIDS beyond the high-risk groups initially associated with the disease. The mother-to-child transmission brought to light the plight of children born with HIV and the multi-faceted nature of its transmission. Over time, understanding that HIV could be spread through heterosexual transmission and intravenous drug use without any connection to the gay community, the narrative and public approach to the AIDS crisis changed, leading to broader education and research efforts.