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Comprehensive & Cost Effective Laboratory Monitoring of HIV/AIDS: an African Role Model
Published on: October 31, 2010
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The global HIV epidemic: What the pathologist needs to know
1Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, United States; Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, United States; Emory Center for AIDS Research, United States.
Seminars in Diagnostic Pathology
|June 2, 2017
Summary
Global HIV statistics show millions living with the virus, but treatment is prevention. Achieving United Nations AIDS Program (UNAIDS) goals requires widespread diagnosis, treatment, and viral suppression, emphasizing laboratory system strengthening.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Globally, approximately 36.7 million people were living with HIV in 2015, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing the highest burden.
- In the US, new HIV infections decreased by 19% from 2005-2014, but the number of people living with HIV approaches 1.2 million.
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage has reached 46% globally, significantly impacting HIV management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the global HIV/AIDS epidemic's scale and regional disparities.
- To emphasize the 'treatment is prevention' strategy promoted by UNAIDS.
- To underscore the critical role of laboratory systems in achieving UNAIDS 2020 goals.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of global and regional HIV prevalence data.
- Review of trends in new HIV infections and ART coverage.
- Examination of UNAIDS targets and the importance of laboratory infrastructure.
Main Results:
- HIV remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Effective ART and viral suppression in HIV-infected individuals prevent transmission.
- Progress towards UNAIDS 2020 goals (90-90-90 targets) is dependent on robust laboratory systems.
Conclusions:
- The 'treatment is prevention' approach is effective in controlling HIV transmission.
- Strengthening laboratory capacity is essential for widespread HIV diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and viral suppression.
- Achieving global HIV control requires sustained efforts in funding, treatment access, and diagnostic capabilities.
