Conclusions

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The statistical correlations found proved the trends that have long been held as stigma in Essex County: as one travels west across the county, income, health, and quality of living increases significantly. As the maps show, most data pertaining to social characteristics will show gradient shading from east to west, or vice versa.  Because of the “drain” of the impoverished eastern half of the county, Western Essex has long been talking of seceding from the county. This goal is neither realistic nor practical because “all” of the tax dollars do not go to the poverty-stricken eastern towns, but are distributed across the county.  Though secession is not the answer, some changes do need to be made in order to stop the spread of HIV. Based upon the correlations found, an important factor that can be practically impacted is level of education.  Through efforts to increase the yield of the school districts, administrators and county officials can be more assured that the county’s young citizens are informed, prepared individuals. Further, if disease awareness and prevention are addressed more thoroughly and from an earlier grade level, hopefully all young minds can be impacted. The educational changes do not have to be made entirely by the school systems. Indeed, philanthropic individuals and charitable organizations often have to take the first steps for controversial, yet important, initiatives to get off the ground. If a number of groups make efforts towards HIV/AIDS prevention education, the future of Essex County will be healthier and brighter.