adminPost Correspondent
UNAIDS welcomes additional evidence that starting antiretroviral therapy at a higher CD4 (a measure of immune system health) level has a positive effect on the health and well-being of people living with HIV. “Every person living with HIV should have immediate access to life-saving antiretroviral therapy,” said Michel Sidibé, Executive Director of UNAIDS.
“Delaying access to HIV treatment under any pretext is denying the right to health.”
The National Institute of Health (NIH) funded international randomised clinical trial START (Strategic Timing of Antiretroviral Treatment) has found compelling evidence that the benefits of immediately starting antiretroviral therapy outweigh the risks.
Data from the study showed that the risk of AIDS, other serious illnesses or death was reduced by 53 percent among people who started treatment when their CD4 levels were 500 or above, compared to the group whose treatment was deferred to when their CD4 levels dropped to 350.
UNAIDS Zimbabwe commends the Government of Zimbabwe on its efforts to scale up access to treatment. However, if the results of the clinical trial are implemented, more people will have to access ARVs.
Currently 62,7 percent of those eligible under the existing guidelines and 51,4 percent of total population in need are on treatment.
Though Zimbabwe’s response to AIDS is among the most successful, the epidemic remains a public health threat and much more needs to be done. Zimbabwe currently chairs the UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board (PCB). The board has accepted an invitation to visit the country to witness first-hand the successes and challenges facing the country.
Online Reporter