To end the HIV-1 pandemic, concerted research efforts must focus on sub-Saharan Africa

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The authors argue that ending the global HIV‑1 pandemic requires focusing much more research effort on sub‑Saharan Africa, the region most affected by the virus. Although Africa carries the highest numbers of people living with HIV and the greatest variety of HIV strains, most scientific studies and genetic data still concentrate on viral types found mainly in wealthier countries, especially subtype B. This imbalance means that important differences in how the virus behaves, responds to treatment, and might be prevented or cured in African populations are not well understood. The authors call for more locally led research, increased sequencing of African HIV strains, and stronger scientific capacity within African countries so that prevention tools, therapies, and vaccines are designed and tested where the epidemic is largest. They emphasize that better representation of the viral diversity and epidemic conditions in Africa will make research findings more broadly relevant and effective for the global fight against HIV. Without this shift, global research may continue to miss key insights needed to develop interventions that work for the majority of people living with HIV