AIDS is a disease caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which attacks and weakens the immune system. The virus primarily targets and infects certain cells in the blood, such as CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system. As the virus replicates and spreads throughout the body, it progressively destroys these cells, leading to a weakened immune response and making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Therefore, AIDS is a disease of the blood, as it directly affects the blood cells and their ability to fight off infections.