Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, praised the drug development by Gilead and highlighted its unprecedented efficacy, stating, 'This is so far superior to any other prevention method we have, that it's unprecedented.' She emphasized that successful application in at-risk countries is essential for the global effort to eradicate AIDS.
The drug, lenacapavir, sold as Sunlenca, already serves to treat HIV. Gilead plans to seek authorization for its preventive use, which experts believe could revolutionize AIDS prevention. Byanyima mentioned, 'It would be a miracle for these groups because it means they just have to show up twice a year at a clinic and then they're protected,' underscoring the drug's potential impact on marginalized communities.
UNAIDS' report marking World AIDS Day indicated a turning point in the fight against AIDS, noting that an estimated 630,000 AIDS deaths last year was the lowest since 2004. They stated that the world is at 'a historic crossroads' with a unique opportunity to end the epidemic.
Despite the promising outcomes of Dilead's lenacapavir study, concerns arose regarding its limited accessibility in regions like Latin America. Observers believe this exclusion might hinder efforts to curb the disease in an area seeing rising infection rates, which is in stark contrast to Gilead’s promise of generics in poorer nations.
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