Time to read
Next UK Government must sustain commitment to new prevention research
On International Women’s Day, NAT calls for the next Government to maintain UK leadership in developing new prevention technologies that will help women protect themselves from HIV.
Deborah Jack, Chief Executive of NAT (National AIDS Trust), comments;
“On International Women’s Day it is appropriate to acknowledge the commitment the Government has shown to fighting HIV around the world. HIV and AIDS is the leading cause of death for women around the world. Through DfID’s work the UK has become a world leader in supporting HIV prevention research.
Women are disproportionately affected by HIV globally, yet they still do not have a widely accepted prevention method they can initiate and control. Whilst existing prevention strategies are essential, new tools such as microbicides or a vaccine, could offer women a powerful new way to protect themselves against HIV.
Progress towards new prevention tools is being made every day. In the field of microbicide research scientists are now focusing their attention on using antiretroviral drugs (ARVs). These drugs already work in the treatment of HIV and can prevent mother-to-child transmission. It will be vital that the next Government continues its support for this research. The investments made now could bring enormous long-term benefits to women and their families around the world.”