HIV Cure Research In Africa

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is lifelong, which may be difficult to sustain, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Moreover, people living with HIV (PLWH) are at increased risk of various comorbidities. Recent studies have demonstrated a proof of concept that an HIV cure is possible. However, these studies have primarily been undertaken in high income countries with relatively low disease burden, mostly in men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV-1 subtype B. In contrast, most HIV-1 infections are in Africa, where the epidemic consists of multiple non-B subtypes, and is more evenly distributed among males and females of all ages. Cure strategies will therefore need to be effective in sub-Saharan Africa for global health impact. The Sub-Saharan African Network for TB/HIV Research Excellence (SANTHE) is leading a session at the 25th International AIDS Conference, in Munich, Germany, focused on highlighting African-led HIV cure research. All delegates are welcome to attend!

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