People living with HIV/AIDS in New Jersey could be negatively affected by prescription drug co-payments included in Gov. Jon Corzine's (D) proposed $29.8 billion budget, advocates told state lawmakers on Tuesday, the Newark Star-Ledger reports. The budget would collect $1.4 million from 9,000 people living with HIV/AIDS who have obtained no-cost medicine from the state because they do not qualify for other assistance programs. Advocates said that the co-payments will hurt patients who are already struggling because of the poor economy. John Covello, director of government and public affairs for the Independent Pharmacy Association of New Jersey, said, "From talking to stores, they know their patients will not have the ability to pay this and the consequences will be dire." He added that HIV/AIDS medications are "very, very expensive drugs."
In addition, the proposed budget would raise $4.6 million through $2 Medicaid prescription drug co-payments, capped at $10 monthly. Phil Lubitz, director of advocacy for the National Association of Mental Illness of New Jersey, said the proposal "really acts as a disincentive for people to go and fill their prescriptions." The Star-Ledger reports that a similar co-payment schedule was included in Corzine's proposed 2008 budget but was removed by lawmakers before the final budget was passed. While requesting Medicaid co-payments "has become an annual rite of the state's budget season," this is the first year co-payments from people living with HIV/AIDS have been included, the Star-Ledger reports.
While discussing the budget proposal at a New Jersey home, Corzine said that there is a "very low probability" that the Medicaid co-payments would be included in the final budget, adding that it "almost always gets adjusted by the Legislature." However, he did not give a direct response when asked about the HIV/AIDS medication co-payments. Corzine said there are "a lot of concerns" but "what we take out we have to put something else back in" (Reitmeyer/Young, Newark Star-Ledger, 3/25).
Monday, March 30, 2009
Tenn. Lawmaker Proposes Bill That Would Require HIV Testing Among Prison Inmates Prior to Release
Tennessee state Rep. Brenda Gilmore (D) has introduced a bill (H.B. 52) that would require HIV tests for prison inmates before their release as part of a larger plan to address the spread of HIV/AIDS in the state, WSMV.com reports. According to Gilmore, the plan will focus on blacks, who comprise 64% of new HIV cases in the state but only 13% of the population.
According to Gilmore, the bill will allow former inmates to become more aware of HIV/AIDS issues and take precautionary measures, WSMV.com reports. She said that a recent report showed that many prison inmates return to prison within three years, adding that "this revolving door creates a culture" of HIV/AIDS that particularly affects black women. Last year, Gilmore proposed similar legislation to require HIV testing among inmates prior to release, and the bill passed in the House. However, the Senate did not take action on the bill. According to WSMV.com, Gilmore is waiting for a hearing on the current bill (Kumari, WSMV.com, 3/24).
According to Gilmore, the bill will allow former inmates to become more aware of HIV/AIDS issues and take precautionary measures, WSMV.com reports. She said that a recent report showed that many prison inmates return to prison within three years, adding that "this revolving door creates a culture" of HIV/AIDS that particularly affects black women. Last year, Gilmore proposed similar legislation to require HIV testing among inmates prior to release, and the bill passed in the House. However, the Senate did not take action on the bill. According to WSMV.com, Gilmore is waiting for a hearing on the current bill (Kumari, WSMV.com, 3/24).
Latin American HIV/AIDS Magazine for Women
The Inter Press Service on Monday examined a new magazine published by the Latin American branch of the International Community of Women Living with HIV/AIDS. The magazine -- called "No Estas Sola," or "You Are Not Alone" -- focuses on providing HIV-positive women in Latin America with information about the virus, stigma, their rights and empowerment. Maria Mansilla, the editor in charge of the publication, said, "What we are trying to do through the magazine is to break with the weepy approach, where there is only room for complaints or for the scientific-medical perspective." The magazine is a quarterly publication that is distributed in the 20 Latin American countries where ICW Latina has national chapters. Daniel Barberis, media officer for ICW Latina, said the magazine could be published more frequently in the future.
Mansilla said the magazine's audience ranges from women who were diagnosed as HIV-positive 20 years ago to "others who just found out," adding that "the agenda has to be balanced and built by all of us together." Design and media professionals were invited to help work on the publication, according to Mansilla. She said that the "idea was not to produce a publication showing what our organization does, but to have a new tool for our work." Mansilla added, "Magazines in doctors' offices often show HIV-positive women in the role of victims, leading tragic lives. But the ones I know are happy, full of energy and living healthy smoking-free lives, keeping close track of their immune systems" (Inter Press Service, 3/23).
Mansilla said the magazine's audience ranges from women who were diagnosed as HIV-positive 20 years ago to "others who just found out," adding that "the agenda has to be balanced and built by all of us together." Design and media professionals were invited to help work on the publication, according to Mansilla. She said that the "idea was not to produce a publication showing what our organization does, but to have a new tool for our work." Mansilla added, "Magazines in doctors' offices often show HIV-positive women in the role of victims, leading tragic lives. But the ones I know are happy, full of energy and living healthy smoking-free lives, keeping close track of their immune systems" (Inter Press Service, 3/23).
HIV, STI Data for Maryland County
Prince George's County in Maryland has the second-highest rate of reported HIV/AIDS cases statewide, County Health Officer Donald Shell announced on Tuesday, the Washington Post reports. The county also has the second-highest rate of sexually transmitted infections, Shell said, adding that only Baltimore is higher in both categories.
Prince George's County reported 5,240 HIV/AIDS cases in 2007, the most recent year for which data are available, according to Shell. He added that the county's proximity to Washington, D.C. -- which recently reported an HIV/AIDS prevalence of 3% -- has affected Prince George's. "There is no border line," he said, adding, "Our proximity puts us at greater risk." In addition, many county residents do not have access to health care -- about 151,000 do not have health coverage, and about 102,000 are on Medicaid, Shell said.
According to Shell, the county also has seen a "resurgence" in syphilis cases. In 1998, the county reported 6.6 cases per 100,000 people, compared with 11.2 cases per 100,000 people in 2007. Although Shell reported rates for several STIs, the department did not provide data to support the claim that the county has Maryland's second-highest rate overall, the Post reports.
According to Shell, the rates of HIV/AIDS and other STIs in Prince George's County can be attributed in part to a lack of safer-sex practices, particularly during heterosexual intercourse. Shell said that he has been surprised by the response he receives from college students. "They don't care about condom usage or about their partners," he said, adding, "There is a blatant disregard that anything is going to happen to them" (Wiggins, Washington Post, 3/25).
Prince George's County reported 5,240 HIV/AIDS cases in 2007, the most recent year for which data are available, according to Shell. He added that the county's proximity to Washington, D.C. -- which recently reported an HIV/AIDS prevalence of 3% -- has affected Prince George's. "There is no border line," he said, adding, "Our proximity puts us at greater risk." In addition, many county residents do not have access to health care -- about 151,000 do not have health coverage, and about 102,000 are on Medicaid, Shell said.
According to Shell, the county also has seen a "resurgence" in syphilis cases. In 1998, the county reported 6.6 cases per 100,000 people, compared with 11.2 cases per 100,000 people in 2007. Although Shell reported rates for several STIs, the department did not provide data to support the claim that the county has Maryland's second-highest rate overall, the Post reports.
According to Shell, the rates of HIV/AIDS and other STIs in Prince George's County can be attributed in part to a lack of safer-sex practices, particularly during heterosexual intercourse. Shell said that he has been surprised by the response he receives from college students. "They don't care about condom usage or about their partners," he said, adding, "There is a blatant disregard that anything is going to happen to them" (Wiggins, Washington Post, 3/25).
Kansas House Committee Approves Bill Requiring HIV Testing For Pregnant Women
The Kansas House Committee on Health and Human Services last week approved a bill (S.B. 147) that would require doctors to test pregnant women and some infants for HIV, the Kansas Health Institute News reports. Committee chair Rep. Brenda Landwehr (R) said that there were "some questions" about the bill "raised early on, but they've been answered." Landwehr previously asked for clarification about whether the bill could lead to HIV-positive infants being denied health insurance because of a "pre-existing condition." Supporters of the bill, including the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, told committee members that the benefits of preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission outweighed concerns about health insurance. The bill passed in the Senate earlier this month and now goes to the full House for consideration (Ranney, Kansas Health Institute News, 3/19).
According to the Kansas Health Institute News, the bill would require that doctors test women in the first trimester of pregnancy for HIV, with those testing negative but at a high-risk for HIV being tested again in the third trimester. The bill also would allow pregnant women to opt out of testing. In addition, infants born to women who have not been tested or who are unaware of their HIV status would be tested under the bill. According to KDHE data, about 4,400 pregnant women in the state do not receive HIV tests each year. William Lyons, director of the HIV/AIDS program within KDHE's Division of Disease Control and Prevention, told the committee that 89% of pregnant women are being tested for HIV in Kansas, meaning that 11% are not. He noted that the cost of a course of medication to prevent MTCT costs "about $17," while the cost of caring for an HIV-positive child often exceeds $250,000 (Ranney, Kansas Health Institute News, 3/18).
According to the Kansas Health Institute News, the bill would require that doctors test women in the first trimester of pregnancy for HIV, with those testing negative but at a high-risk for HIV being tested again in the third trimester. The bill also would allow pregnant women to opt out of testing. In addition, infants born to women who have not been tested or who are unaware of their HIV status would be tested under the bill. According to KDHE data, about 4,400 pregnant women in the state do not receive HIV tests each year. William Lyons, director of the HIV/AIDS program within KDHE's Division of Disease Control and Prevention, told the committee that 89% of pregnant women are being tested for HIV in Kansas, meaning that 11% are not. He noted that the cost of a course of medication to prevent MTCT costs "about $17," while the cost of caring for an HIV-positive child often exceeds $250,000 (Ranney, Kansas Health Institute News, 3/18).
New Zealand Reports Record Number of HIV Diagnoses
New Zealand reported 184 HIV diagnoses last year, the highest on record, according to recently released statistics from University of Otago's AIDS Epidemiology Group, the NZPA/New Zealand Herald reports. The previous record high was 183 diagnoses in 2005. According to the epidemiology group, 152 people contracted the virus through sexual contact, including 91 men who have sex with men, and 39 men and 22 women who were exposed through heterosexual contact. Two cases involved injection drug use, and another two cases involved blood transfusions that occurred overseas. According to the statistics, four infants contracted HIV through mother-to-child transmission. In addition, the statistics indicate that 43 people received AIDS diagnoses. According to the report, safer-sex practices, HIV testing, and the prevention and treatment of other sexually transmitted infections should be emphasized to reduce the spread of HIV. In addition, it said that prevention efforts should focus on minority groups (NZPA/New Zealand Herald, 3/20).
Texas Senate Approves Bill To Allow Needle-Exchange Programs
The Texas Senate on Wednesday voted 23-7 to approve a bill (S.B. 188) that would allow local state health agencies to run needle-exchange programs to help curb the spread of HIV and other bloodborne diseases among injection drug users, the Dallas Morning News reports. Texas is the only state that currently prohibits needle-exchange programs, according to the Morning News .
Under the bill, sponsored by Sen. Bob Duell (R), health officials would be allowed to charge participants, who would be asked to turn in used needles to program officials in exchange for clean ones. According to the Morning News, there are numerous studies showing that exchange programs have health benefits "not only for drug users but also their children and those they come in contact with, such as medical providers."
Duell said that a needle-exchange program decreases the spread of HIV and hepatitis, as well as "saves the state money without costing the state any money." He added that he "understood" that the bill was a difficult vote for some senators because of misconceptions about needle-exchange programs, noting that national studies have shown the programs do not increase drug use but reduce HIV cases among IDUs by about 30%, the Morning News reports. According to the Morning News, Gov. Rick Perry (R) has indicated he does not support needle-exchange programs. The Senate was scheduled to vote on the bill one more time before it can proceed to the House for consideration, according to the Morning News (Stutz, Dallas Morning News, 3/19).
Under the bill, sponsored by Sen. Bob Duell (R), health officials would be allowed to charge participants, who would be asked to turn in used needles to program officials in exchange for clean ones. According to the Morning News, there are numerous studies showing that exchange programs have health benefits "not only for drug users but also their children and those they come in contact with, such as medical providers."
Duell said that a needle-exchange program decreases the spread of HIV and hepatitis, as well as "saves the state money without costing the state any money." He added that he "understood" that the bill was a difficult vote for some senators because of misconceptions about needle-exchange programs, noting that national studies have shown the programs do not increase drug use but reduce HIV cases among IDUs by about 30%, the Morning News reports. According to the Morning News, Gov. Rick Perry (R) has indicated he does not support needle-exchange programs. The Senate was scheduled to vote on the bill one more time before it can proceed to the House for consideration, according to the Morning News (Stutz, Dallas Morning News, 3/19).
HIV/AIDS in Washington, D.C.
A recent report finding that HIV/AIDS prevalence in Washington, D.C., has reached 3% is "raising alarm bells" in South Carolina's Lowcountry region, the Charleston Post and Courier reports. Although South Carolina's prevalence has not reached the same level as the district's, it is "still one of the riskiest states in the nation for unprotected sex," according to the Post and Courier. "We've made a lot of progress, but we can't be complacent," Tony Price, the HIV prevention program manager at the Department of Health and Environmental Control, said. Virginia King, director of Lowcountry AIDS Services, said that the district report should serve as a warning for South Carolina. "It could become more of a problem here if people don't start to pay attention to what they do," she said.
According to the Post and Courier, blacks are at an increased risk of contracting HIV/AIDS. In South Carolina, blacks comprise 29% of the population but account for 73% of HIV cases, according to the health department. The health department also reports that men who have sex with men, particularly black MSM, are at an increased risk, as well as injection drug users and women, who are increasingly affected through heterosexual intercourse. According to the health department, the percentage of HIV-positive blacks in South Carolina has decreased over the past 10 years, which health workers attribute to increased HIV/AIDS education and testing efforts (Munday, Charleston Post and Courier, 3/18).
According to the Post and Courier, blacks are at an increased risk of contracting HIV/AIDS. In South Carolina, blacks comprise 29% of the population but account for 73% of HIV cases, according to the health department. The health department also reports that men who have sex with men, particularly black MSM, are at an increased risk, as well as injection drug users and women, who are increasingly affected through heterosexual intercourse. According to the health department, the percentage of HIV-positive blacks in South Carolina has decreased over the past 10 years, which health workers attribute to increased HIV/AIDS education and testing efforts (Munday, Charleston Post and Courier, 3/18).
Advocates, Vatican Respond to Pope Statement That Condom Distribution Will Not Curb HIV/AIDS in Africa
Pope Benedict XVI's statement on Tuesday that condom distribution will not curb the spread of HIV/AIDS in Africa has "sparked an international outcry" among HIV/AIDS advocates and prompted a response from the Vatican, AFP/Google.com reports (AFP/Google.com, 3/18). While heading to Yaounde, Cameroon, as part of a seven-day pilgrimage to Africa, the pope said, "You can't resolve it with the distribution of condoms," adding, "On the contrary, it increases the problem" (Simpson, AP/Washington Times, 3/18). He added that addressing the disease will require a "spiritual and human awakening" and "friendship for those who suffer" (AFP/Google.com, 3/18).
The Rev. Federico Lombardi, a spokesperson for the pope, called the criticism of Benedict's remarks the "echoes caused by some words by the pope on the AIDS problem." He added that the Roman Catholic Church's "essential principles" regarding HIV/AIDS prevention are "education about people's responsibility in the use of sexuality" and the "essential role of marriage and family." At the end of the second day of Benedict's African tour, Lombardi issued a written statement indicating that the church emphasizes treatment for "the widest number of sick" and "human and spiritual assistance" to people living with HIV/AIDS (AP/Washington Times, 3/18). Lombardi also said that Benedict was stating a long-standing Vatican position against artificial contraception, including condoms, adding that the pope aimed to emphasize that relying on condoms takes away from a needed focus on sexual conduct education (Charlton, AP/Seattle Times, 3/18). According to London's Guardian, the Vatican posted a version of the pope's comments on the Holy See's Web site that said, "The scourge cannot be resolved with the distribution of prophylactics; on the contrary, this risk is of increasing the problem" (Butt/Hooper, Guardian, 3/19).
Michel Kazatchkine -- head of the Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria -- called for the pope to retract his "unacceptable" statement, which he called "a denial of the epidemic." According to Kazatchkine, for the pope "to make these remarks on a continent that unfortunately is a continent where 70% of people who have AIDS die, it's absolutely unbelievable" (AFP/Google.com, 3/18). He said, "I think Africa, which is hit so hard (by AIDS), did not need this message," adding, "Negationist statements are terribly harmful" (AP/Seattle Times, 3/18). In addition, UNAIDS called condoms an "essential part of combination prevention," adding, "With more than 7,400 new infections each day, the world cannot stop the AIDS epidemic without stopping new HIV" transmissions (AFP/Google.com, 3/18). Although UNAIDS did not mention the pope in its comments, the agency released its statement the day after Benedict's remarks (AP/Seattle Times, 3/18).
According to the Guardian, several foreign governments also criticized the Vatican, which is a "rare" occurrence that "reflects the strength of feeling against the pope's comments." Eric Chevallier, spokesperson for the French foreign ministry, said in an online briefing, "France voices extremely sharp concern over the consequences of Benedict XVI's comments." He added, "While it is not up to us to pass judgment on church doctrine, we consider that such comments are a threat to public health policies and the duty to protect human life." According to Chevallier, condom distribution is "a fundamental element of actions" to prevent HIV transmission. Laurette Onkelinx, health minister of Belgium, said the pope's remarks reflect "a dangerous doctrinaire vision." Onkelinx added that Benedict's statements on condoms "could demolish years of prevention and education and endanger many human lives." In addition, German Health Minister Ulla Schmidt and Minister of Development Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul issued a joint statement criticizing the pope's remarks. "Condoms save lives," they said, adding, "Modern assistance to the developing world today must make access to family planning available to the poorest of the poor, especially the use of condoms. Anything else would be irresponsible" (Guardian, 3/19).
In addition to international agencies and foreign governments, many HIV/AIDS advocates joined the recent criticism against the pope's comments. Alain Fogue, spokesperson for Cameroon's treatment campaign MOCPAT, said, "To claim that condoms 'aggravate' the problem of AIDS goes totally against all the efforts made by the Cameroonian government." Advocates in Angola, where Benedict will arrive Friday, added that the pope's statements should relate to church doctrine and not public health. "Condoms are a method of preventing AIDS, not just in Africa but in all the world," Delma Monteiro, head of an HIV program, said. She added that officials "have to use all forms of prevention that we can against this disease." Mohga Kamal-Yanni, an HIV/AIDS specialist for Oxfam International, said "access to condoms is absolutely essential to combat HIV." Kamal-Yanni added that in order to prevent new HIV cases, particularly among young people, "we need to expand the use of condoms, not decrease it." Judith Melby, an Africa specialist at the United Kingdom's Christian Aid, added that the pope's statements "are not very helpful." She added that his position is "sending a confusing message to Africa, in those countries where the Catholic church is very important" (AFP/Google.com, 3/18).
The Rev. Federico Lombardi, a spokesperson for the pope, called the criticism of Benedict's remarks the "echoes caused by some words by the pope on the AIDS problem." He added that the Roman Catholic Church's "essential principles" regarding HIV/AIDS prevention are "education about people's responsibility in the use of sexuality" and the "essential role of marriage and family." At the end of the second day of Benedict's African tour, Lombardi issued a written statement indicating that the church emphasizes treatment for "the widest number of sick" and "human and spiritual assistance" to people living with HIV/AIDS (AP/Washington Times, 3/18). Lombardi also said that Benedict was stating a long-standing Vatican position against artificial contraception, including condoms, adding that the pope aimed to emphasize that relying on condoms takes away from a needed focus on sexual conduct education (Charlton, AP/Seattle Times, 3/18). According to London's Guardian, the Vatican posted a version of the pope's comments on the Holy See's Web site that said, "The scourge cannot be resolved with the distribution of prophylactics; on the contrary, this risk is of increasing the problem" (Butt/Hooper, Guardian, 3/19).
Michel Kazatchkine -- head of the Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria -- called for the pope to retract his "unacceptable" statement, which he called "a denial of the epidemic." According to Kazatchkine, for the pope "to make these remarks on a continent that unfortunately is a continent where 70% of people who have AIDS die, it's absolutely unbelievable" (AFP/Google.com, 3/18). He said, "I think Africa, which is hit so hard (by AIDS), did not need this message," adding, "Negationist statements are terribly harmful" (AP/Seattle Times, 3/18). In addition, UNAIDS called condoms an "essential part of combination prevention," adding, "With more than 7,400 new infections each day, the world cannot stop the AIDS epidemic without stopping new HIV" transmissions (AFP/Google.com, 3/18). Although UNAIDS did not mention the pope in its comments, the agency released its statement the day after Benedict's remarks (AP/Seattle Times, 3/18).
According to the Guardian, several foreign governments also criticized the Vatican, which is a "rare" occurrence that "reflects the strength of feeling against the pope's comments." Eric Chevallier, spokesperson for the French foreign ministry, said in an online briefing, "France voices extremely sharp concern over the consequences of Benedict XVI's comments." He added, "While it is not up to us to pass judgment on church doctrine, we consider that such comments are a threat to public health policies and the duty to protect human life." According to Chevallier, condom distribution is "a fundamental element of actions" to prevent HIV transmission. Laurette Onkelinx, health minister of Belgium, said the pope's remarks reflect "a dangerous doctrinaire vision." Onkelinx added that Benedict's statements on condoms "could demolish years of prevention and education and endanger many human lives." In addition, German Health Minister Ulla Schmidt and Minister of Development Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul issued a joint statement criticizing the pope's remarks. "Condoms save lives," they said, adding, "Modern assistance to the developing world today must make access to family planning available to the poorest of the poor, especially the use of condoms. Anything else would be irresponsible" (Guardian, 3/19).
In addition to international agencies and foreign governments, many HIV/AIDS advocates joined the recent criticism against the pope's comments. Alain Fogue, spokesperson for Cameroon's treatment campaign MOCPAT, said, "To claim that condoms 'aggravate' the problem of AIDS goes totally against all the efforts made by the Cameroonian government." Advocates in Angola, where Benedict will arrive Friday, added that the pope's statements should relate to church doctrine and not public health. "Condoms are a method of preventing AIDS, not just in Africa but in all the world," Delma Monteiro, head of an HIV program, said. She added that officials "have to use all forms of prevention that we can against this disease." Mohga Kamal-Yanni, an HIV/AIDS specialist for Oxfam International, said "access to condoms is absolutely essential to combat HIV." Kamal-Yanni added that in order to prevent new HIV cases, particularly among young people, "we need to expand the use of condoms, not decrease it." Judith Melby, an Africa specialist at the United Kingdom's Christian Aid, added that the pope's statements "are not very helpful." She added that his position is "sending a confusing message to Africa, in those countries where the Catholic church is very important" (AFP/Google.com, 3/18).
Related Editorial
Although "[i]n a perfect world, people would abstain from having sex until they were married or would be monogamous in committed relationships, ... the world isn't perfect," a Washington Post editorial states, adding that "neither is Pope Benedict's pronouncement on the effectiveness of condoms in the battle against HIV/AIDS. The evidence says so." The editorial asks, "Are condoms foolproof protection against infection by HIV, which causes AIDS? No." However, even though condoms sometimes break or are used incorrectly, "doctors on the front lines of the fight against the AIDS epidemic established long ago that the use of condoms greatly diminishes the transmission of HIV," according to the editorial. It says that it is "troubling" that Benedict "chose to question the value of condoms in fighting the nearly 28-year-old scourge while heading to the continent whose people are most affected by it." Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 67% of people living with HIV in the world and 75% of all AIDS deaths, according to UNAIDS, the editorial states. It adds that "[h]eterosexual intercourse is the 'driving force' of the epidemic."
The editorial continues that the pope's remarks were "especially discordant to us coming a day after" a report about HIV/AIDS prevalence in Washington, D.C. The editorial notes that the "startling" report showed that 3% of D.C. residents are living with HIV/AIDS and that UNAIDS and CDC define a "severe" epidemic in a specific area as infection in at least 1% of the population. According to the editorial, "To halt the march of HIV/AIDS, those who have the infection must be treated. Those who do not have it need all the information and tools possible to remain HIV-negative." It concludes, "The pope's denunciation of condoms is of no help" (Washington Post, 3/19).
Increase in Heroin Availability in Australia Posing Risk of HIV
The Australian National Council on Drugs on Monday said that increased amounts of heroin entering the country from the Middle East and Asia could contribute to the spread of HIV among injection drug users, the Sydney Morning Herald reports. The council's Asia-Pacific Committee reported that heroin trafficking has increased and that border detections of the drug were the highest on record in 2006 and 2007.
According to committee chair Robert Ali, heroin use and overdose deaths in Australia have decreased since 2001, but overall global production has increased, creating new risks. He said that an increase in the availability of heroin could result in "recruitment of new drug users," adding, "It's recruiting a new group of users into injecting who think there is no HIV and don't know much about hepatitis C and just feeling that it's not risky. There's a perception that all of this has gone away, that it's no longer a problem." He added that there is "a real risk" of HIV and hepatitis C among IDUs. ANCD reports that heroin imported from Afghanistan also is being more heavily processed to allow for easier injection (Sydney Morning Herald, 3/17). Ali warned that authorities should not become complacent, according to the West Australian. He said, "When we look at the global drug problem, the threat that is causing the most concern is the risk of HIV, and there are now 128 countries that have detected HIV among drug users." He added that one-third of all HIV cases outside of Sub-Saharan Africa are transmitted through injection drug use (O'Leary, West Australian, 3/17). According to Ali, Australia should work with neighboring countries to address the issue. "We need to get ahead of the game, we need to work with our near-neighboring countries ... to help implement things that work because that will be in our long-term domestic security interest" (Sydney Morning Herald, 3/17).
According to committee chair Robert Ali, heroin use and overdose deaths in Australia have decreased since 2001, but overall global production has increased, creating new risks. He said that an increase in the availability of heroin could result in "recruitment of new drug users," adding, "It's recruiting a new group of users into injecting who think there is no HIV and don't know much about hepatitis C and just feeling that it's not risky. There's a perception that all of this has gone away, that it's no longer a problem." He added that there is "a real risk" of HIV and hepatitis C among IDUs. ANCD reports that heroin imported from Afghanistan also is being more heavily processed to allow for easier injection (Sydney Morning Herald, 3/17). Ali warned that authorities should not become complacent, according to the West Australian. He said, "When we look at the global drug problem, the threat that is causing the most concern is the risk of HIV, and there are now 128 countries that have detected HIV among drug users." He added that one-third of all HIV cases outside of Sub-Saharan Africa are transmitted through injection drug use (O'Leary, West Australian, 3/17). According to Ali, Australia should work with neighboring countries to address the issue. "We need to get ahead of the game, we need to work with our near-neighboring countries ... to help implement things that work because that will be in our long-term domestic security interest" (Sydney Morning Herald, 3/17).
Antibodies Present in Long-Term HIV Survivors Could Contribute to Vaccine Development
HIV-positive people who do not develop AIDS and do not require antiretroviral medication could provide insight for new strategies in vaccine development, according to a study published Sunday in the journal Nature, London's Independent reports. Michel Nussenzweig -- head of Rockefeller University's Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and author of the study -- said his research aimed to harness natural mechanisms to target HIV rather than use synthetically produced antibodies, some of which have failed in earlier HIV vaccine trials.
For the study, Rockefeller University researchers examined antibodies present in the blood of six long-term HIV survivors who appeared to have a degree of natural immunity to the virus (Connor, Independent, 3/16). The researchers isolated 433 antibodies from the patients, all of which targeted HIV's protective outer coating, or "envelope." The researchers then cloned the antibodies and observed which elements of the envelope each antibody targeted and how effectively it neutralized HIV. During the research, Johannes Scheid, a doctoral student at Rockefeller University, identified a new structure on the HIV envelope that scientists previously had not recognized as an antibody target. Although the researchers determined that each antibody individually had a weak effect on HIV, they also found that the antibodies as a group effectively targeted the virus (PA/Google.com, 3/15). In addition, the researchers determined that a prototype vaccine developed from several of the antibodies can prevent the growth of HIV in human cells in a test tube.
Nussenzweig said the study identified "many different antibodies that individually have limited neutralizing ability but together are quite powerful." According to Nussenzweig, only about one in every 1,000 HIV-positive people produces the neutralizing antibodies. He said the research attempts a new approach to HIV vaccine development by "copying what exists in nature and that we know can work because of the long-term survivors." He added, "Instead of inventing something that doesn't exist, it's trying to copy something that does exist." Nussenzweig said the study's results "should make people think about what an effective vaccine should look like." According to the Independent, the researchers next plan to conduct further trials of vaccine candidates on laboratory animals and human volunteers.
The Independent also profiled Kai Brothers, a San Francisco man who has been living with HIV for 28 years without developing AIDS or requiring antiretroviral medications. The Independent reports that Brothers, who did not participate in the new study, might be one of "a few -- perhaps as few as one in 5,000" -- HIV-positive people who have natural immunity to the virus. Brothers said he has participated in HIV research for 10 years, adding, "I feel dedicated to giving back something because of my good fortune" (Independent, 3/16).
An abstract of the study is available online.
For the study, Rockefeller University researchers examined antibodies present in the blood of six long-term HIV survivors who appeared to have a degree of natural immunity to the virus (Connor, Independent, 3/16). The researchers isolated 433 antibodies from the patients, all of which targeted HIV's protective outer coating, or "envelope." The researchers then cloned the antibodies and observed which elements of the envelope each antibody targeted and how effectively it neutralized HIV. During the research, Johannes Scheid, a doctoral student at Rockefeller University, identified a new structure on the HIV envelope that scientists previously had not recognized as an antibody target. Although the researchers determined that each antibody individually had a weak effect on HIV, they also found that the antibodies as a group effectively targeted the virus (PA/Google.com, 3/15). In addition, the researchers determined that a prototype vaccine developed from several of the antibodies can prevent the growth of HIV in human cells in a test tube.
Nussenzweig said the study identified "many different antibodies that individually have limited neutralizing ability but together are quite powerful." According to Nussenzweig, only about one in every 1,000 HIV-positive people produces the neutralizing antibodies. He said the research attempts a new approach to HIV vaccine development by "copying what exists in nature and that we know can work because of the long-term survivors." He added, "Instead of inventing something that doesn't exist, it's trying to copy something that does exist." Nussenzweig said the study's results "should make people think about what an effective vaccine should look like." According to the Independent, the researchers next plan to conduct further trials of vaccine candidates on laboratory animals and human volunteers.
The Independent also profiled Kai Brothers, a San Francisco man who has been living with HIV for 28 years without developing AIDS or requiring antiretroviral medications. The Independent reports that Brothers, who did not participate in the new study, might be one of "a few -- perhaps as few as one in 5,000" -- HIV-positive people who have natural immunity to the virus. Brothers said he has participated in HIV research for 10 years, adding, "I feel dedicated to giving back something because of my good fortune" (Independent, 3/16).
An abstract of the study is available online.
Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
An American Indian youth theater group on Friday will perform in Minneapolis to mark National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, which is scheduled for March 20, the AP/Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports. The Ogitchi-dag Players from the Indigenous Peoples Task Force will perform at the city's American Indian Center. According to Minnesota health officials, 193 HIV cases and 81 AIDS-related deaths have been recorded among American Indians in the state since the beginning of the epidemic, and about 100 HIV-positive American Indians live in Minnesota. Mitchell Davis, director of the state minority health office, called for frequent HIV tests and safer-sex practices among the population. He also warned against sharing needles for injection drug use and body art (AP/Minneapolis Star-Tribune, 3/15).
Anthony Fauci, head of NIH'S National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, ahead of the awareness day said, "Lack of access to basic health care services, stigma associated with homosexuality and HIV/AIDS, barriers to effective mental health care, and high rates of substance abuse, sexually transmitted infections and poverty all increase the risk of HIV/AIDS in native communities and create obstacles to HIV prevention and treatment." He added, "Consequently, as a proportion of their population, more American Indians and Alaska Natives became infected with HIV than whites in 2006. American Indians and Alaska Natives acquired new HIV infections at a rate of 14.6 cases per 100,000 people, while whites became newly infected at a rate of 11.5 cases per 100,000. Moreover, American Indian and Alaska Native women became infected with HIV at more than three times the rate of white women in 2006" (NIAID release, 3/13).
Anthony Fauci, head of NIH'S National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, ahead of the awareness day said, "Lack of access to basic health care services, stigma associated with homosexuality and HIV/AIDS, barriers to effective mental health care, and high rates of substance abuse, sexually transmitted infections and poverty all increase the risk of HIV/AIDS in native communities and create obstacles to HIV prevention and treatment." He added, "Consequently, as a proportion of their population, more American Indians and Alaska Natives became infected with HIV than whites in 2006. American Indians and Alaska Natives acquired new HIV infections at a rate of 14.6 cases per 100,000 people, while whites became newly infected at a rate of 11.5 cases per 100,000. Moreover, American Indian and Alaska Native women became infected with HIV at more than three times the rate of white women in 2006" (NIAID release, 3/13).
Friday, March 13, 2009
Chicago Tribune Examines Program That Offers No-Cost HIV Tests in Hospital ED
The Chicago Tribune on Wednesday examined a CDC-funded program in four Chicago hospitals that offers no-cost HIV tests to emergency department patients. CDC in 2007 gave $35 million in grants to 23 state and local health departments to implement the no-cost HIV testing programs with a goal of testing one million people, particularly blacks who account for about 50% of the estimated one million HIV-positive Americans.
The Chicago Department of Public Health received $3.8 million for the program and distributed $1.3 million to Advocate Trinity, Stroger, Mt. Sinai and Provident hospitals. According to Cathy Yanda, director of HIV Counseling, Testing and Partner Services in Chicago, by the end of last year, 19,907 people had received no-cost HIV tests through the program, and 143 people were found to be HIV-positive.
Donna Sinclair -- health education coordinator for the Rapid HIV Testing Project at Advocate Trinity Hospital, which received about $190,000 for the program -- said the hospital's initial goal was to administer 8,000 HIV tests to ED patients but that the target was increased to 10,000 after so many people responded. Sinclair said that some patients were reluctant to be tested when the program began in May 2008 but that the refusal rate decreased from 65% to 20% as the health workers administering the tests became more comfortable asking people to be tested. She added that the test administrators last summer began offering HIV tests to family and friends of ED patients. People who test positive for HIV are offered counseling, while people who test negative receive information about how to prevent contracting the virus in the future. In addition, staff provide brochures and no-cost condoms.
According to the Tribune, more than 21,000 Chicago residents were living with HIV/AIDS in 2006, and the health department estimates that thousands more people do not know they are HIV-positive (Stone, Chicago Tribune, 3/11).
The Chicago Department of Public Health received $3.8 million for the program and distributed $1.3 million to Advocate Trinity, Stroger, Mt. Sinai and Provident hospitals. According to Cathy Yanda, director of HIV Counseling, Testing and Partner Services in Chicago, by the end of last year, 19,907 people had received no-cost HIV tests through the program, and 143 people were found to be HIV-positive.
Donna Sinclair -- health education coordinator for the Rapid HIV Testing Project at Advocate Trinity Hospital, which received about $190,000 for the program -- said the hospital's initial goal was to administer 8,000 HIV tests to ED patients but that the target was increased to 10,000 after so many people responded. Sinclair said that some patients were reluctant to be tested when the program began in May 2008 but that the refusal rate decreased from 65% to 20% as the health workers administering the tests became more comfortable asking people to be tested. She added that the test administrators last summer began offering HIV tests to family and friends of ED patients. People who test positive for HIV are offered counseling, while people who test negative receive information about how to prevent contracting the virus in the future. In addition, staff provide brochures and no-cost condoms.
According to the Tribune, more than 21,000 Chicago residents were living with HIV/AIDS in 2006, and the health department estimates that thousands more people do not know they are HIV-positive (Stone, Chicago Tribune, 3/11).
Female Migrants From Asia at an Increased Risk of HIV, U.N. Report Says
Female migrants from Asia have become "highly vulnerable" to HIV during the global financial crisis, according to a United Nations Development Programme report released in Manila, the Philippines, on Tuesday, AFP/Nasdaq.com reports. According to the report, the economic crisis has resulted in widespread job cuts and the "situation of migrant workers is under threat." It added, "When demand for labor wanes, those in the weakest bargaining position, usually temporary migrant workers and particularly the undocumented, will accept almost any conditions to hold on to their jobs."
Between 70% and 80% of migrant workers from Sri Lanka and the Philippines to Arab states are women, and 60% of female migrants from Bangladesh were employed in the region between 1991 and 2007, according to the report. It added that these women now face harsh conditions. Many are heavily indebted when they leave their home countries, and others experience sexual abuse by their employers or are kidnapped by human traffickers. "Conditions are expected to become harsher for even the employed migrant workers as they try to hang on to their jobs," UNDP country representative Renaud Meyer said, adding that undocumented workers are among the most vulnerable and might "accept almost any circumstances to hold on to their jobs." Meyer said, "Worst still, during the present turmoil, desperation for work may lead to migration under unsafe conditions, sexual exploitation and increased vulnerability to HIV infections" (AFP/Nasdaq.com, 3/10).
Prasada Rao, regional director for UNAIDS, said that although "migration itself is not a risk factor to HIV infection, the conditions under which some workers migrate and their living conditions in the host countries make them highly vulnerable to HIV." Ajay Chhibber, UNDP regional director for Asia and the Pacific, said that migrants found to be HIV-positive often face deportation and that they are unable to find work and experience discrimination once they return to their home countries (AP/MSNBC.com, 3/10).
According to AFP/Nasdaq.com, although some countries require HIV/AIDS education for migrants prior to departure, many workers do not receive such education. For example, 96% of Bangladeshi domestic workers in the Middle East said that they did not receive HIV/AIDS orientation before departure. "While half of them have heard of HIV through the media or from co-workers, none had in-depth knowledge of HIV prevention" and safer-sex methods, the report said, adding that the combination of recruitment fees and low wages can force female migrants into "debt traps, which in turn, could lead to sexual exploitation." In addition, workers who "flee abusive working conditions are immediately rendered illegal by host countries, exposing them to greater risk of abuse, including sexual exploitation and increased vulnerability to HIV," the study said. It was based on more than 600 interviews with migrant workers from Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Philippines and Sri Lanka, which supply workers to countries such as Bahrain, Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates (AFP/Nasdaq.com, 3/10).
The report is available online.
Between 70% and 80% of migrant workers from Sri Lanka and the Philippines to Arab states are women, and 60% of female migrants from Bangladesh were employed in the region between 1991 and 2007, according to the report. It added that these women now face harsh conditions. Many are heavily indebted when they leave their home countries, and others experience sexual abuse by their employers or are kidnapped by human traffickers. "Conditions are expected to become harsher for even the employed migrant workers as they try to hang on to their jobs," UNDP country representative Renaud Meyer said, adding that undocumented workers are among the most vulnerable and might "accept almost any circumstances to hold on to their jobs." Meyer said, "Worst still, during the present turmoil, desperation for work may lead to migration under unsafe conditions, sexual exploitation and increased vulnerability to HIV infections" (AFP/Nasdaq.com, 3/10).
Prasada Rao, regional director for UNAIDS, said that although "migration itself is not a risk factor to HIV infection, the conditions under which some workers migrate and their living conditions in the host countries make them highly vulnerable to HIV." Ajay Chhibber, UNDP regional director for Asia and the Pacific, said that migrants found to be HIV-positive often face deportation and that they are unable to find work and experience discrimination once they return to their home countries (AP/MSNBC.com, 3/10).
According to AFP/Nasdaq.com, although some countries require HIV/AIDS education for migrants prior to departure, many workers do not receive such education. For example, 96% of Bangladeshi domestic workers in the Middle East said that they did not receive HIV/AIDS orientation before departure. "While half of them have heard of HIV through the media or from co-workers, none had in-depth knowledge of HIV prevention" and safer-sex methods, the report said, adding that the combination of recruitment fees and low wages can force female migrants into "debt traps, which in turn, could lead to sexual exploitation." In addition, workers who "flee abusive working conditions are immediately rendered illegal by host countries, exposing them to greater risk of abuse, including sexual exploitation and increased vulnerability to HIV," the study said. It was based on more than 600 interviews with migrant workers from Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Philippines and Sri Lanka, which supply workers to countries such as Bahrain, Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates (AFP/Nasdaq.com, 3/10).
The report is available online.
National HIV/AIDS Day for Women, Girls
The New York City-based HIV/AIDS group Gay Men's Health Crisis on Tuesday will join other advocates, officials, teachers and clergy members outside City Hall to bring attention to what it calls the "alarming" impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls on the occasion of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, the AP/USA Today reports. The group plans to call for improved sex education in schools and increased HIV prevention and treatment services (AP/USA Today, 3/9). The 2009 theme for the day is "HIV is Right Here at Home" (HHS Web site, 3/10).
According to New York City's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the city remains at the "epicenter" of HIV/AIDS in the U.S. Currently, one in three HIV-positive residents is female, an increase from one in 10 in the early years of the epidemic. In addition, almost 90% of HIV-positive women and 94% of teenage girls who recently contracted the disease are black or Hispanic, the AP/USA Today reports (AP/USA Today, 3/9). In the U.S., women accounted for 26% of new AIDS diagnoses in 2005, an increase from 11% in 1990. In addition, HIV/AIDS currently is the leading cause of death among black women ages 25 to 34. According to HHS, most women contract HIV through heterosexual contact or injection drug use (HHS Web site, 3/10).
According to New York City's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the city remains at the "epicenter" of HIV/AIDS in the U.S. Currently, one in three HIV-positive residents is female, an increase from one in 10 in the early years of the epidemic. In addition, almost 90% of HIV-positive women and 94% of teenage girls who recently contracted the disease are black or Hispanic, the AP/USA Today reports (AP/USA Today, 3/9). In the U.S., women accounted for 26% of new AIDS diagnoses in 2005, an increase from 11% in 1990. In addition, HIV/AIDS currently is the leading cause of death among black women ages 25 to 34. According to HHS, most women contract HIV through heterosexual contact or injection drug use (HHS Web site, 3/10).
HIV/AIDS Assistance
Sacramento County, Calif., has received an $870,775 grant from HHS to assist some of the estimated 5,000 people living with HIV/AIDS in the county, Rep. Doris Matsui (D) announced recently, the Sacramento Bee reports. The money will go to the county's Department of Health and Human Services to help HIV-positive residents who do not have health insurance and are financially struggling because of the economic situation. The grant will be used to fund emergency care and expand emergency services for people in the greatest need. "This grant helps those who need it most and shows our commitment to helping those living with HIV/AIDS," Matsui said (Lindelof, Sacramento Bee, 3/8).
HIV/AIDS Outreach Efforts in Atlanta, Buffalo, N.Y., Target Black Community
The following summarizes two recent events that seek to raise HIV/AIDS awareness in the black community.
- Atlanta: The African-American Outreach Initiative will hold its 10th annual conference on HIV/AIDS in Atlanta March 15, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. AIDS is the leading cause of death among black women ages 24 to 34 and the second leading cause of death among black men ages 35 to 44. The two-day conference will seek to identify people who are HIV-positive and encourage them to seek care, Michael Banner, chair of the planning committee, said. According to Banner, the conference attracts between 500 and 600 people who are HIV-positive. Banner said the conference "gives people who are HIV-positive a safe place to come and get information and see role models who are living with HIV but not living in the shadows" (Bonds Staples, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 3/8).
- Buffalo, N.Y.: The Buffalo division of the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS on Saturday as part of an effort to commemorate "Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS" sponsored a series of HIV/AIDS prevention workshops at a local church, the Buffalo News reports. The highest rates of new HIV infections are among black men who have sex with men and heterosexual women, Donna Chapman, the Buffalo coordinator of NBLCA, said. "The purpose of (the commission) is to mobilize the indigenous, African-American leadership in whatever city we go to help them make an intelligent and meaningful response to the HIV pandemic," Chapman said. The workshops were aimed at "demystifying issues surrounding the disease while also allowing participants to deal with the issue from a faith perspective," the News reports. The commission also held a breakfast for local pastors and their wives as part of its outreach mission targeting black religious leaders (McNeil, Buffalo News, 3/7).
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Microbicide Containing Natural Compound Provides Protection in Monkeys Against Simian Version of HIV
An experimental microbicide containing a naturally occurring compound provides protection in monkeys against the simian version of HIV by diminishing immune responses to the virus, according to a study published Wednesday in the journal Nature, the Los Angeles Times reports. HIV typically spreads in the body by entering CD4+ T cells, which the immune system sends out to attack the virus after exposure. The compound -- called glycerol monolaurate, or GML -- works by inhibiting immune signals that dispatch the T cells to attack the infection. It is those T cells that HIV infects and uses to proliferate throughout the body (Engel, Los Angeles Times, 3/5). GML occurs naturally in the human body and already is approved for use as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ingredient in cosmetics and toiletries, as well as an emulsifier in foods. In addition, each dose of GML used in the study costs less than one cent. According to the researchers, the study's findings have promising implications for the development of effective microbicides to prevent HIV (AFP/Google.com, 3/4).
For the study -- led by Ashley Haase, head of the microbiology department at the University of Minnesota Medical School, and microbiologist Patrick Schlievert -- researchers administered the GML gel vaginally to five rhesus monkeys and then repeatedly exposed them to the simian version of HIV, or SIV. After two weeks, all of the five monkeys tested negative for the virus. However, four out of five monkeys that did not receive the GML gel contracted SIV. According to the researchers, five months after the experiment, they learned that one of the monkeys treated with GML tested positive for the virus. The researchers said they are unsure how this monkey contracted SIV, but they suggested that a small amount of the virus might have spread in the body undetected or the monkey might have been exposed to SIV after the study ended (Lerner, Minneapolis Star Tribune , 3/4).
Haase said the current research is "a relatively preliminary study but worth sharing because it establishes a novel approach." The researchers added that a mathematical model suggests that even if the microbicide were 60% effective and used 20% of the time, it still could prevent about 2.3 million HIV cases over a three-year period. According to the study authors, researchers will need to conduct further animal studies to determine whether the microbicide should be administered over a longer period of time to provide long-term protection against the virus (Los Angeles Times, 3/5). Further study also will be needed to demonstrate whether GML prevents HIV transmission among humans, they added. The researchers said they plan to undertake a larger study with monkeys, followed by a study with female volunteers. In addition, the University of Minnesota has applied for patents for the new compound combining GML with a personal lubricant, which currently is not available commercially. According to Schlievert, the ultimate goal will be to develop a gel that can be used for both men and women (Minneapolis Star Tribune, 3/4).
According to the study authors, the research "represents a highly encouraging new lead in the search for an effective microbicide to prevent HIV transmission that meets the criteria of safety, affordability and efficacy" (Fox, Reuters, 3/4). Haase said that although the research "sounds counter-intuitive, halting the body's natural defense system might actually prevent transmission and rapid spread of the infection" (AFP/Google.com, 3/4). Charlene Dezzutti, laboratory network director of the Microbicides Trial Network at the University of Pittsburgh, said the research illustrates "a new approach to thinking about microbicides." She added that she believes scientists "definitely" could develop an effective microbicide before developing an HIV/AIDS vaccine. "It's just a matter of getting all the right pieces together," she said (Lauerman, Bloomberg, 3/4). Rowena Johnston, vice president of research for the Foundation for AIDS Research, said that if further studies confirm these results, "then this is really a fabulous new finding." She said that although future microbicide research could encounter setbacks, the study is "absolutely a great beginning to a research project."
According to Schlievert, women could apply the GML microbicide "an hour or so before they had sex" to protect against HIV transmission. In addition, the gel might provide protection against other sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, he said (Minneapolis Star Tribune, 3/4). According to AFP/Google.com, Schlievert first identified the microbicidal properties of GML when studying the use of the compound in preventing toxic shock syndrome associated with tampons. He said research repeatedly has found that the compound is safe and has no effect on beneficial vaginal bacteria (AFP/Google.com, 3/4). Lorraine Teel, executive director of the Minnesota AIDS Project, said the gel could provide women with a way to prevent disease transmission in areas of the world where many people do not use condoms because of cultural or other pressures. The research has "absolutely enormous implications" for women worldwide, she said (Minneapolis Star Tribune, 3/4). Anthony Fauci, director of NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said an effective microbicide would "empower women to protect themselves in a sexual situation in which they may not have complete control" (Los Angeles Times, 3/5).
An abstract of the study is available online.
For the study -- led by Ashley Haase, head of the microbiology department at the University of Minnesota Medical School, and microbiologist Patrick Schlievert -- researchers administered the GML gel vaginally to five rhesus monkeys and then repeatedly exposed them to the simian version of HIV, or SIV. After two weeks, all of the five monkeys tested negative for the virus. However, four out of five monkeys that did not receive the GML gel contracted SIV. According to the researchers, five months after the experiment, they learned that one of the monkeys treated with GML tested positive for the virus. The researchers said they are unsure how this monkey contracted SIV, but they suggested that a small amount of the virus might have spread in the body undetected or the monkey might have been exposed to SIV after the study ended (Lerner, Minneapolis Star Tribune , 3/4).
Haase said the current research is "a relatively preliminary study but worth sharing because it establishes a novel approach." The researchers added that a mathematical model suggests that even if the microbicide were 60% effective and used 20% of the time, it still could prevent about 2.3 million HIV cases over a three-year period. According to the study authors, researchers will need to conduct further animal studies to determine whether the microbicide should be administered over a longer period of time to provide long-term protection against the virus (Los Angeles Times, 3/5). Further study also will be needed to demonstrate whether GML prevents HIV transmission among humans, they added. The researchers said they plan to undertake a larger study with monkeys, followed by a study with female volunteers. In addition, the University of Minnesota has applied for patents for the new compound combining GML with a personal lubricant, which currently is not available commercially. According to Schlievert, the ultimate goal will be to develop a gel that can be used for both men and women (Minneapolis Star Tribune, 3/4).
According to the study authors, the research "represents a highly encouraging new lead in the search for an effective microbicide to prevent HIV transmission that meets the criteria of safety, affordability and efficacy" (Fox, Reuters, 3/4). Haase said that although the research "sounds counter-intuitive, halting the body's natural defense system might actually prevent transmission and rapid spread of the infection" (AFP/Google.com, 3/4). Charlene Dezzutti, laboratory network director of the Microbicides Trial Network at the University of Pittsburgh, said the research illustrates "a new approach to thinking about microbicides." She added that she believes scientists "definitely" could develop an effective microbicide before developing an HIV/AIDS vaccine. "It's just a matter of getting all the right pieces together," she said (Lauerman, Bloomberg, 3/4). Rowena Johnston, vice president of research for the Foundation for AIDS Research, said that if further studies confirm these results, "then this is really a fabulous new finding." She said that although future microbicide research could encounter setbacks, the study is "absolutely a great beginning to a research project."
According to Schlievert, women could apply the GML microbicide "an hour or so before they had sex" to protect against HIV transmission. In addition, the gel might provide protection against other sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, he said (Minneapolis Star Tribune, 3/4). According to AFP/Google.com, Schlievert first identified the microbicidal properties of GML when studying the use of the compound in preventing toxic shock syndrome associated with tampons. He said research repeatedly has found that the compound is safe and has no effect on beneficial vaginal bacteria (AFP/Google.com, 3/4). Lorraine Teel, executive director of the Minnesota AIDS Project, said the gel could provide women with a way to prevent disease transmission in areas of the world where many people do not use condoms because of cultural or other pressures. The research has "absolutely enormous implications" for women worldwide, she said (Minneapolis Star Tribune, 3/4). Anthony Fauci, director of NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said an effective microbicide would "empower women to protect themselves in a sexual situation in which they may not have complete control" (Los Angeles Times, 3/5).
An abstract of the study is available online.
Texas Bill To Make HIV Screening Part of Routine Care Would Help Efforts To Curb Virus
"More than two years after" CDC "recommended routine HIV screening, two state lawmakers" in Texas have proposed a bill to align the state with the federal recommendations, a Lubbock Avalanche-Journal editorial says. It adds that between 2003 and 2007, "more than one-fourth of Texans with HIV were diagnosed late in the course of the disease and were diagnosed with AIDS within a month." According to Ed Sherwood, chair of the Texas Medical Association Committee on Infectious Diseases, making HIV tests a part of routine care "would help avoid situations where patients assume they couldn't be infected and decide not to get tested," the editorial says. In addition, if the legislation "passes, it will be a model for other states," according to bill sponsor Sen. Rodney Ellis (D), the editorial says, adding, "California and Illinois are the only other states to pass HIV screening legislation, but not as comprehensive."
The state "already has legislation requiring inmates in Texas prisons to be tested for HIV when they enter and leave the system," according to the editorial. It adds that state law "also requires doctors to offer HIV screening at checkups for pregnant" women. The editorial concludes that the bill is a "good idea ... as long as people can opt out" (Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, 3/4).
The state "already has legislation requiring inmates in Texas prisons to be tested for HIV when they enter and leave the system," according to the editorial. It adds that state law "also requires doctors to offer HIV screening at checkups for pregnant" women. The editorial concludes that the bill is a "good idea ... as long as people can opt out" (Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, 3/4).
New York Times Examines Web Site on Male Circumcision
The New York Times on Tuesday examined a new Web site -- launched by the World Health Organization, UNAIDS, the AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition, Family Health International, and several U.S. and British public health schools -- that aims to serve as a resource on male circumcision and HIV/AIDS. According to the Times, since WHO and UNAIDS two years ago recommended that male circumcision be made available in countries highly affected by HIV/AIDS to help reduce transmission of the virus through heterosexual sex, much "misinformation has circulated" regarding the procedure in some countries. In addition, there has been a "dangerous surge in complications as traditional healers without sterile instruments began offering cheap circumcisions," the Times reports.
The Web site includes scientific studies, policy documents and news articles and aims to address some popular myths, including one that circumcision provides complete protection from HIV, so circumcised men do not need to use condoms, according to Kim Eva Dickson, a WHO medical officer who oversaw the creation of the Web site. It also includes a handbook that demonstrates surgical techniques, although Dickson said that it is not meant to train traditional healers or surgeons. She added that the handbook could help at some small hospitals in rural areas by demonstrating new methods for further investigation and teaching that men need pain management, sex advice and condoms in addition to surgery. According to Dickson, the Web site in its first week has had visitors from the U.S., Switzerland and the United Kingdom, as well as India, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa and Turkey (McNeil, New York Times, 3/3).
The Web site includes scientific studies, policy documents and news articles and aims to address some popular myths, including one that circumcision provides complete protection from HIV, so circumcised men do not need to use condoms, according to Kim Eva Dickson, a WHO medical officer who oversaw the creation of the Web site. It also includes a handbook that demonstrates surgical techniques, although Dickson said that it is not meant to train traditional healers or surgeons. She added that the handbook could help at some small hospitals in rural areas by demonstrating new methods for further investigation and teaching that men need pain management, sex advice and condoms in addition to surgery. According to Dickson, the Web site in its first week has had visitors from the U.S., Switzerland and the United Kingdom, as well as India, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa and Turkey (McNeil, New York Times, 3/3).
Thursday, March 05, 2009
New Blog at AIDS-Drugs-Online.com
The staff at www.aids-drugs-online.com have started up another blog! This blog is a great resource, and is featuring all of the latest articles and press releases that ADO.com has put out. It will contain up-to-date news and information and be a great resource (not unlike this one) for those looking for information on HIV and AIDS.
The new blog can be found at: AIDS-Drugs-Online.com/wordpress/
The new blog can be found at: AIDS-Drugs-Online.com/wordpress/
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